What works best in CMS?

1. Include a File Type and Size - When users visit your site they will want to know the size of the files they need to download.  This format can be used as an example.  [doc 78KB]
    
2. Alternative Text Requirements - For each image used on the Web site, alternative text is provided for 508 Compliance based on the federal government's Web site accessibility requirements for state agencies.
    
3. Replacing Resources vs. Deleting Resources - It is recommended that all resources, such as photos and documents be placed in the 'Resource Gallery'.  When a resource needs to be updated it should be modified and then the earlier version be replaced by the newer one.  The navigation to find the Replace feature is:  Resource Manager>Your site found in the tree>Approprate folder in the tree>Replace.
    
4. How to Use Relative vs. Absolute links - Absolute links are those links that take a user to pages outside of the agency's site.  Relative links can be used in the agency site and can be linked using all the address after .gov  For example, if the site is xxx.sc.gov/contactus, then to link this you would use /contactus when setting up the hyperlink.  This will link directly to your "Contact Us" page.  For further assistance refer to Section 23.0, page 30 in the CMS User Guide.
    
5. Remembering to Create a Default Page - Each channel created in Site Manager must have a page that displays when clicked on it.  When creating this default page, remember that it must be named "default".  The "Display Name" in the next field box will be included in the breadcrumbs.
    
6. Hiding a Channel - Click on "Manage Left Navigation" in the Portal Management menu.  All channels are displayed there.  Click on "Modify" and uncheck the "Visible" box.  This will remove the channel from the left menu.
    
7. Making a Channel vs. Creating a New Page: What's the Difference? - All channels will be created in Site Manager and should be viewed as broad topics or areas of the site.  New pages should be created based on type of info
    
8. Let Users Know to Open Attachments in a New Window - Many times when visiting a site people will open attachments that take the place of the browser window they are viewing.  It is a good idea to let users know how to open attachments in a new window so they do not accidentally close out of the site.  For example, "To open this attachment, right click the mouse and choose 'Open in a New Window'."
    
9. Changing an Image Size in Microsoft Paint. - All images should be cropped to the approrpriate size outlined in the CMS User Guide in Section 22.0.  If an agency does not have photo editing software they can go to Start>Programs>Accessories>Paint and import the desired image there.  Next, on the menu click on "Image" and "Stretch/Skew".  Lowering the percentages will reduce the size of the image.