Design, Development and Delivery of a Bespoke Corporate Web Site

The Communications, Development and Marketing (CDM) department at the University of Lincoln is responsible for creating and delivering the University's website and digital recruitment platforms (including social media and the broader on-line presence) as part of the institution's corporate reputation and student recruitment strategy. The University of Lincoln's corporate website, as the institution's shop window, has an enormous part to play in the management of the institution's reputation and how it is perceived by a wide range of stakeholders. It has a vital role in delivering the University's marketing and communications objectives, and in its engagement with the outside world. Though the website is under constant development in relation to the changing needs and priorities of the University, the last full redevelopment was carried out in 2011. The current website has performed to a high standard and still outperforms most competitor sites. Visitor feedback in terms of the site's ease of use, attractiveness and content relevance remains consistently very high. However, it is recognised that the site is showing functional limitations and there are a number of new challenges that need to be addressed to ensure it remains fit-for-purpose and meets the University's changing strategic objectives. In addition, technology and ways of using the internet have moved on and certain areas of the website may require redevelopment and new thinking.