Requirements

To ensure that all websites representing the University convey a consistent and accurate message and image, all departments are required to seek website approval by Communications and Public Relations (www.tnstate.edu/pr) prior to implementation.  Communications and Public Relations will review sites based on the guidelines found in this policy. Audits to check for compliance, consistency, and accurate messages are performed on an ongoing basis.

TSU colleges and departments must review and update content regularly to maintain accuracy.

• Review contact and deadline information every semester.
• Check all site links at least quarterly; monthly is recommended.
• Immediately remove outdated pages and content.

All Web content is expected to use accurate, standardized information on enrollment, research funding, number of faculty, number of buildings, acreage, finances, etc. This information is available from Institutional Research.

To ensure a user-focused format, it is important that all of TSU Web pages have consistent navigational elements and terminology.

Left-side Navigation Requirements (leftnav):

• "Degree Programs" must be the first item below the department's name (for academic departments only)
• "Contact Us" must be the last item on the leftnav.

The official TSU logo must appear near the top of all Web pages. Any prominent TSU logo or words “Tennessee State University” must always link back to the main TSU home page at /.

Departmental identity and links to those sites must appear on each page as well.

The standard footer (which is on the TSU homepage) must also appear at the bottom of all web pages.

• Last updated date with address, phone number and email address for the department.
• Links to the accessibility, sustainability, HIPPA, OU job search, policies, legal notices, copyrights.
• Optional: links to department social media accounts
• Format and design should follow the design seen below 
  
  
  

Typical TSU URLs are extensions of the main/root tnstate.edu. In general, only URLs ending in “tsu.edu” are hosted on university Web servers. Colleges and departments must request an exemption from Communications and Public Relations in order to utilize a domain extension other than .edu (.com, .org, etc.). The University also reserves the right to reserve URLs or refuse requests for URL forms deemed inappropriate or likely to be used in the future by departments and administrators (for example, URLs including words like “security” or “emergency”).