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February 2007
CTS redesigns Web site
Capping a 10-month effort, CTS launched its redesigned Web site: www.cts.umn.edu.
“The revamped site offers a number of improvements,” said CTS information manager Arlene Mathison, who led the redesign. “Based on findings from usability testing, the site was changed to have clearer and consistent navigation options,” she explained. “The home page is richer in content, with news of research and upcoming events. And our search engine is easily accessible throughout the site.”
The structure is adapted from the University of Minnesota’s Web templates, establishing a closer tie-in to the University. The site also has a “cleaner” look, with new photos and graphics.
Powering the site is an expanded use of database-generated pages. The site is modular and expandable, with simplified style sheets and templates. “The robust framework will facilitate the redesigns of sites for other CTS programs,” Mathison says.
“We’ve set our sights high,” said Gina Baas, CTS director of communications and outreach. “Our goal is to be known as one of the top resources for transportation information in the world. We believe this redesign is a huge step in that direction.”
Other staff contributing to the redesign were Charlie Grussing-Neitzel, Web coordinator, who applied the latest standards in Web development; Cadie Wright, graphic designer; C.J. Loosbrock, information systems specialist; editors Pamela Snopl, Peter Park Nelson, and Michael McCarthy; and Nyssa Gesch, student intern.
The site features news articles, a subcription page for all CTS publications, research reports, educational offerings, online registration for CTS events, and much more.
Enhancements coming in the next few months include new ways to browse research by topic; RSS feeds for news, events, and job postings; and an enhanced search function integrating research projects and reports.