| Issues Template
These represent some of the core pages of the website. The
pages are already in existence on the old sites
currently used by the No to Mergers groups. What is needed
is that they simply conform to this standard template, and fit into the
main document frame.
Explanation of Various Sections
News:
This section should contain news items from the group. It is
the web version of any news letter that is sent in mass Emailings to the
membership. News does not have to be updated as often as CNN.
However, to keep the site fresh it is a good idea to rotate headlines,
and update old out of date information.
Events:
This page will contain a listing of all new upcoming events.
This should be a functional events calendar. Important information
to include is municipal election information, dates, and times, as well
as rally information.
Media:
This section is designed specifically for the mass media, professional
journalists in particular. News Release information should be archived
here. Any new headline information can be put in here as well.
This page should also be kept fresh and purged of old material.
Forum:
Interactive/static chat message forum. A message board service
where users discuss the issues. Thhis device already exists at the
Democracite site. http://www.democracite.org
The Facts:
This section will contain much of the bulk research on the issue.
It should be where bulky lengthy studies are kept, and NOT in the media
section. It is a good idea to index the items, and provide short
paragraph executive summaries for each entry. That way, the more
interested observer can visit, and gain knowledge. A person who wants
to read on, can click to view the full article.
Core fact information, which reinforces the groups strategic message,
should be listed first. Other information can be listed in less prominent
order.
Who are we?
This section should include a statement of purpose, and
a brief overview of the organization. Any other information the group
thinks citizens should know about them is relevant here.
Contact Information
Important contact information, for reaching the group in the real world.
This contact information should also be present in the Media section.
Many anti merger coalition websites lack this. Good contact information
fosters a sense of legitimacy in the group. Also, provide hours where
people are reachable, and make sure that there is someone there to answer
the phones or reply to inquiries when they are asked. I found it
hard to reach people on many anti merger web sites.
Other Pages
Your Community - Links to the interactive map of Montreal
Stay Informed - A link to a page where users can join a mailing list.
This is also a good place to collect information about users, for statistical
and targeting purposes.
The Headlines - A section featuring links to online media, who
have provided coverage of the issue. Make a point of highlighting
coverage that is positive to the group. A good headline can also
be linked to from the "News " section on the main page. An example
of a news ticker on the main page would read: The Montreal
Gazette Criticized the Government for lack of Consultation on Municipal
Merger Issue. This would then link to the Headlines Page, where that
article is prominently featured. The user may visit that article
or other articles linked on the Headlines page.
Privacy Statement. One element that should be included
in the site is a page outlining the privacy policy of the organization.
This is especially important if information is collected, or funds are
solicited online. A privacy policy link may be put on the main page,
or on pages where information is being collected. Information will
be collected when users enter their Email and other information to sign
up. In terms of collecting donations, it is important for the group
to outline the privacy policy regarding credit card information.
This issue
affects all Quebeckers! |