“We need to fix the website” is a common refrain. But why? To what end? And how? A redesign project is no small feat, requiring significant time and resources to pull off. But how can you ensure that the effort will result in an appropriate, sustainable solution that won’t just feel good on day one but also works well on day two and beyond?
In “From Mess to Success – How Content Strategy Can Save Your Web Project,” Georgy Cohen, OHO’s Associate Creative Director, Content Strategy breaks down the discipline of content strategy, explaining its value as a core principle for your redesign effort. “Content strategy can sometimes seem out of reach, given limited time and resources. But it is doable! And making the investment from the outset of your project will result in a more efficient and effective end product.”
There were a number of key takeaways from the presentation that can help guide you through using content strategy to ensure a successful website redesign.
The Four Components of Content Strategy
A combination of content components and people components, Brain Traffic defines the four components of content strategy as:
- Substance
- Structure
- Workflow
- Governance
Content Strategy is Doable
While there are a lot of scary things about content strategy – the cost associated, the time and resources it demands, or the executive buy-in it requires – it is absolutely doable. Things to keep in mind that will make content strategy seem well within reach include:
- Focus on what users need
- Create a first impression that is positive, real, and lasting
- Create filter questions that allow you to select the right content and carry out your vision
Making Content Strategy Work
There are a number of steps involved in carrying out a successful content strategy.
- Consider the basics
- Take the temperature of stakeholders
- Assess your resources
- Evaluate existing processes
- Take stock of content
- Lay the foundation
- Start making the case
Above all, remember that content strategy isn’t just something you think about only for the launch of a website redesign, it is a critical component of an ongoing plan to keep a website relevant, fresh, and user-friendly.
Watch the webinar now:
Related Reading
Communicating with First Generation College Students on Your Website
First-generation college students are a critical demographic in the U.S.
Align Your Content Strategy to Your College or University Strategic Plan
I’ve worked with higher ed for a long time, and I’ve seen a lot of wonderful things. But few things are more wonderful than a thoughtfully conceived strategic plan.
Four Data Sources to Guide Effective Higher Ed Digital Storytelling
When you think about digital brand storytelling at a college or university, you may initially think about stories of outstanding individual achievement: faculty conducting groundbreaking r
Jumpstart Your Higher Ed Website Redesign with Content Strategy
Planning a website redesign can be daunting. There’s a lot to consider: