Division of Information Technology

Web Site Definitions

1. Static Site
Provides minimal information about the unit or organization that is not likely to change with regularity (i.e., mission, organization, contact information). Recommended for units that do not have resources available on an ongoing basis to maintain Web page information. Such sites can be created using templates and standard graphics that are available at http://www.osu.edu/resources. Requires a commitment to respond to inquiries directed to the page's identified Webmaster in an appropriately expedient manner.

2. Reference Site
Communicates information that changes on a regular basis and must be kept current in order to serve the needs of constituents and site visitors. Requires the assignment of a Webmaster within the unit or organization and must be kept current within reasonable expectations. Requires a commitment to respond expeditiously to inquiries directed to the identified Webmaster.

3. Dynamic Reference Site
Provides for a unit to conduct its "business" --instruction, research, administration, service-- via Web-enabled technology and to maintain two- way communication with constituents and site visitors. Significant requisite investment of human and technological resources must be allotted to meet the expectations and needs of the user. Requires continuous staffing to maintain currency and business flow, to enable communication, and to respond to user requirements.

4. Restricted Access Site
Provides a validation system by which users can be authenticated, tracked, and given access to sensitive information. Significant requisite investment of human and technological resources must be allotted to meet the expectations and needs of the user. Requires permanent, constant staffing to maintain currency and business flow, to enable communication, and to respond to user requirements. Other technical issues include, but are not limited to, server access outside of the Central State domain, speed of server, number of users allowed on the system, and others.

5. E-Commerce Sites
E-Commerce sites provide a system where users conduct financial transactions by electronic means. E-Commerce often refers to purchases from online stores on the Web, known as E-Commerce Web sites, virtual- stores, or Cyberstores. E-Commerce can either be conducted business to business, or transactions can take place between businesses and consumers. Significant requisite investment of human and technological resources must be allocated to meet the expectations and needs of the user. E-Commerce Web sites require permanent, constant staffing to maintain currency and business flow, to enable communication, and to respond to user requirements. Other technical issues include, but are not limited to, server access outside of the Central State domain, speed of server, number of users allowed on the system, and others.

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