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About this Web Site
On September 1, 2005, the new version of the University of Maryland School of Nursing Web site was launched. The new site is a result of more than one year of research and testing. Based on the information received through this process by our Web committee and other visitors to our Web site we are confident you will find that the information on the site is organized more effectively and that the whole site is easier to use.
We have taken great measures to ensure that the site is accessible to all visitors. Click here for information on this site's accessibility, including information on Web Standards, Tab Indexing, and Access Keys.
Below are some points regarding the revisions to the site. We hope they will provide you with additional information on the changes and why they were implemented.
Consistent Navigation
"Top" and "bottom" navigation (explained below) remains on all official School pages.
Breadcrumbs
Breadcrumb navigation, found just below the page's header and top navigation, shows you the path of your current location.
Table-less Design
All pages have unique Web addresses and can be bookmarked or saved to your favorites.
Pages Are Smaller
By using semantic markup and a clear hierarchy of information our pages upload quicker. Most images are imported from our style sheets, which results in a more efficient Web site.
Follow the "Three-Click Rule"
It is our attempt to have the majority of content three clicks away from our homepage. Nothing should be buried too deep in the site if it is part of the officialSON Web site.
New Templates
Along with the Web site itself, we have designed new templates for a calendar of events, press releases, academic departments and faculty biographies.
Further questions or comments can be directed to the Webmaster. Or you can take our Web survey »
Overall Design
Remaining consistent with the University System of Maryland, we utilize the state colors of black, red, and yellow for the official pages of our site.
The official header used on our Web site is the UMB seal with the words "University of Maryland School of Nursing" beside it; to this, we incorporate a collage of photos that reflect the diversity of campus life.
Navigation
Top Navigation
Consistent throughout official School pages. These links are "resource" based. The navigation links go to: Home, About Us, Academics, Offices, Programs, Resources, and Help.
Bottom Navigation
Also consistent through all official School pages, the "quick" links go to: Admissions, History, Ways of Giving, Museum, Directory, and the State of the School.
Left Navigation
On the homepage
Left navigation is geared toward visitor populations. Links are defined by the following groups, as well as those who need help starting: Alumni, Business, Government, & Professional Partners, Current Students, Faculty & Staff, Health Professionals, Media, Prospective Students, and Research Colleagues; as well, an additional link for Help if you are not sure where to begin.
On internal Web pages
Left-hand navigation on internal pages are "Related Items" to the page you are presently visiting.
Right Navigation
On the homepage
Right-hand navigation on the homepage includes information formerly at the top of the old Web site. We gain much more space, expanding news and event links from 4 to 8-10. The links here are divided into two sections: SON News and Events & Activities
On internal Web pages
Right-hand navigation on internal pages (three column designed) include a photo related to the page as well as contact information for a specific office, program, or department, and general contact for the School.