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  However, to keep the site fresh it is a good idea to rotate headlines, and update old out of date information.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!

 

This site was built and is maintained by Mike Pereira © 2001  Mockup document for Quebec Municipal Mergers campaign.