Jennifer Kitzmann
LV Life Editor

The University of La Verne Web site is currently getting a facelift that will incorporate the latest technology and will better reflect the mission of the University and its Web presence, those working on the redesign hope.

“Redesigning the Web site is like unveiling a jewel and the true identity of what ULV is about,” Fred Chyr, chief marketing officer and co-chairman of the redesign effort said. “It will be a more appealing way to connect with the community.”

The Web site, when completed, will have an improved information delivery system with a faster navigation tool, more user friendly aspects, interactive videos, blogs and up-to-date content within the departments.

“The current Web site has over 100,000 pages, and each department has so much great information (but it’s) hard to find,” Chyr said.

“Researching information ... should only be three-clicks away. The new Web site will be so much easier to navigate and much more appealing.”

“I think one of the hardest parts about enrolling in ULV is the application process on the Web site, which is a little misleading,” prospective student Eric Marquez said.

“It would be great if it was easier to access,” Marquez said.
Chyr says the application process for new ULV students is a major focus and the re-design group is working on making the process faster and less difficult to find.

Applicants will also be able to track the process of their application and check how long it will take, while each department looks over their information.

In addition to the new technology and faster navigation system, there will be a new background design that will be more effective and will better represent ULV.

Additionally, it will also get a splash of color schemes and have a more attractive and innovative design.

The Web site will have a new ?and improved search engine optimization, which will increase traffic to the University site.

“In having a faster search engine it will bring more traffic to our site,” Chyr said.
“Also, a new implemented tool will provide periodic updates within the departments, and give them an even more effective way of helping students and faculty have easy access to updated information much faster.”

The Web design team, has put together focus groups that are set up to review the old Web site and bring in the new, which include surveys, questionnaires and opinions from faculty, staff and students that will help in making the Web site more effective.

“The Web-design project is an exciting project in developing a strong Web site that will represent the University in the positive light it deserves,” Lisa Rodriguez, director of the Center for Teaching and Learning, said.

“We are working hard together to make sure the students and the community at ULV can find what they need,” Rodriguez said.

The focus groups and Web design team are adding three more faculties such as the College of Art and Sciences, College of Education and College of Business in furthering the Web sites successful production.

Chyr says the Web site will always be a work in progress in keeping up with new technology.

Even though the new Web site will have significant changes it may take longer before it is completely finished.

Re-designing the ULV Web site is a step in the right direction and will launch Nov. 3.

Jennifer Kitzmann can be reached at jkitzmann@ulv.edu.