Official University Web sites are stored on University Web servers and are created by the University, its campuses, colleges, schools, departments, or other administrative offices for University business. Official Web sites do not include Web sites created by individual faculty, staff, or students.

1. Complete an Information Provider Contract: Each department or organization must have a signed Information Provider Contract on file with the Office of Information Technologies (OIT). The contract is signed by both the head of the department or organization and the information provider, i.e. the person developing and maintaining the site. Email official@oit.umass.edu or call 545-1833 with any questions.

   UMass Web Site Account Agreement
   Information Provider Contract

2. Obtain an OIT Account: Once you complete and submit the Information Provider Contract, OIT will create an OIT Account. This account is generally created in the name of the department head.
3. CGI Accounts: If you want to be able to use CGI scripts in your site, you must also apply for space on the CGI server. Learn more about CGI server accounts.

1. Inform OIT if the information provider changes: The information provider is the sole contact between your department or organization and OIT. We use the contact information in your Information Provider Contract to keep you informed of technical problems, such as access failure due to server maintenance, etc.
2. Maintain a valid UMass Amherst email address: You must maintain a valid email address so we can keep you informed of the status of your account, the server, and other necessary information.
3. You are responsible for the content on your site: Make sure the content you post on your site is accurate and current.
4. Abide by server storage guidelines: Keep only documents pertaining to the organizational web page on the WWW server (www.umass.edu). Do not store software or student materials on the server and do not use it as a location to store or transfer files.
5. Follow content guidelines:

   Make sure that every page you create contains the following:

   • Name of the department or organization
   • Mailing address
   • Telephone number
   • Fax number (if available)
   • Email address for questions or comments
   • Date page last updated (recommended but not mandatory)

   You must also adhere to the guidelines for official sites including:

   • A link to the UMass Amherst home page (http://www.umass.edu).
   • A notice that the page is an "official" page of the University.
   • A link to the statement about official University pages (http://www.umass.edu/umhome/official.html).
   • An official version of the UMass logo.

   For more information, see the Guide to Communications and Marketing or contact the Web Development Office at 577-4741.

If you encounter problems, submit an online Help Request.
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Contact the OIT Help Desk at 545-9400.