World Wide Web Guidelines

Please also see the McWeb page, for more information on Web publishing.

The following guidelines have been developed to assist users in publishing information on the Internet. These guidelines are to be used in conjunction with the guidelines established by ITD, MCIT, as well as all relevant University Policies and Procedures, particularly the Policy on Proper Use of Information Resources, Information Technology and Networks at the University of Michigan (Standard Practice Guide 601.7).

1. Each "Front" Page should have the University of Michigan Medical School seal (this can be in addition to the UMMC logo). Several graphics are available on the UMMS web graphics page for use.
2. All information on the page(s) should be accurate and up to date. Include "last updated" information on every page. See MCIT Tips for instructions on how to install "last updated" info.

   Check the links on your pages periodically to ensure that they are all still working.

3. You may want to include a counter on your main page. MCIT has a nice counter available for use. Simply follow the instructions for installation at MCIT Tips.
4. Please inform Kristin Colligan, when new pages go on-line so that she can link them with the appropriate Medical School site. She can be reached at:

   e-mail: kriscoll@umich.edu

   phone: 3-4098

5. All legal regulations should be complied with, including:
   • When using people's photos on a home page, you must have a signed release granting permission to use their image on the Internet from all people who appear identifiably. This includes STUDENTS and people in GROUP photos. You can obtain the appropriate form from Public Relations at 764-2220.
   • Observe copyright laws. Assume material is copyrighted unless otherwise indicated and obtain permission before using it. For more information on copyright laws, please see the McWeb Standards.
   • Consider using a disclaimer if publishing medical or other sensitive information.
6. Nothing confidential should be posted on the Web without following appropriate security precautions, including "locking" it so that only UMMC users can read it. Remember that some information is sensitive, and consult your superior if you have any question as to whether something should be locked. See MCIT Guidelines for information on how to lock documents.
7. Be aware of privacy issues. Don't publish individual e-mail addresses or phone numbers on the web unless you obtain permission beforehand. Avoid publishing schedules that might reveal people's whereabouts.
8. Pages should have appropriate titles.
9. Main pages should:
   • identify the department, unit or project represented by the page
   • identify department contact, with e-mail link, complete address, and phone number
   • have a link to the Medical School home page (graphic button link available for this)
10. Links to pages that are not maintained by your department, the Medical School, the Medical Center or the University of Michigan should be clearly labeled as "other internet resources".
11. It is recommended that all pages developed by a department or program strive to have a consistent look and presentation of information to make them easily identifiable as part of the department, i.e. using department letterhead at the top of each page, consistent font, colors, backgrounds, etc.
12. E-mail links should be provided for your home pages and any other appropriate pages where further information might be needed. E-mail should be read and answered consistently and promptly.
13. Just as in printed pieces, avoid making specific promises, guarantees or comparisons that might be interpreted as obligations of the University of Michigan. Use a disclaimer if publishing information that could be construed as a promise or obligation of the University.
14. Consider developing a directory of faculty and staff, including phone numbers, email addresses with links, and snail mail addresses. See the Dean's Office Directory for an example. Include a link to the x.500 directory search if appropriate.