Best Practices
This site will provide guidance for Gato design and best practices for the web using Texas State standards.
Thoughtful web publishing inside the Gato Content Management System (CMS) is crucial to achieving a consistent look for Texas State digital communications. While Texas State comprises many colleges, departments and offices, it is a single institution. A consistent look conveys a professional image and strengthens our brand on the web.
For the Texas State web standards please read the Web Best Practices on the University Marketing site.
Important things to consider
Texas State strives for accessibility, with resources and technology that are available for everyone. Access to information and electronic technology for persons with disabilities is an essential component of the Texas State University policy. All websites need to comply with ADA regulations, something to keep in mind when choosing colors, or fonts outside the ones provided.
Gato websites are responsive. Responsive means that users can access the Texas State website from a variety of devices and your Gato site will adapt to provide a positive experience for that device.
When designing, consider how the user will see this page on a large, medium and small device.The content types provided in Gato have been designed to preform well and look good across a variety of devices.
User centered design means being aware of who your target audience is before writing content, and keeping them in mind when creating your site. Ask the following questions:
- What is my message?
- What is the goal of my site?
- Who is looking at my site?
- Is this piece of information relevant to my target audience?