University Communications is implementing a university-wide web governance model to enhance the quality, consistency, and long-term sustainability of our websites.
This model applies to official university websites within the appstate.edu domain that are supported by UComm’s technology infrastructure.
What Is Web Governance?
Web governance is the framework of roles, responsibilities, processes, and standards that guide how App State’s official websites are created, managed, and maintained. It helps ensure our digital presence is accurate, consistent, accessible, and aligned with institutional priorities.
This governance model supports collaboration across colleges, departments, and administrative units—empowering distributed content teams while maintaining high standards for quality and compliance.
Web Governance Reference Document
For a full breakdown of the governance framework, roles, access levels, workflows, and responsibilities, view the official document:
University Web Governance Model (Google Doc)
Why Web Governance Matters
App State’s websites are one of our most visible and impactful communication tools. A clear governance model helps us:
- Ensure accurate, up-to-date information for students, families, faculty, and partners
- Maintain accessibility and meet compliance with university policies and standards
- Protect the university’s brand and digital reputation
- Support consistency across hundreds of university-managed websites
- Clarify roles, responsibilities, and publishing workflows
- Improve efficiency and reduce risk
Whether you're a content author, communications liaison, site manager, or part of a support team, web governance helps you do your work effectively and confidently.
What’s Included in the Governance Model
The university’s Web Governance Model outlines:
- Scope of web governance
- Website tier structure (Authoritative, Core, Auxiliary)
- Content and website roles and how they work together
- Permissions and access guidelines
- Responsibilities of UComm and content stakeholders
- Example content strategy and publishing workflow
Who Should Use This Resource
This model is designed for:
- Communications Directors and Liaisons
- Site Managers and Publishers
- Content Creators, Contributors, and Approvers
- Unit Leaders responsible for digital communications
- Anyone involved in planning or maintaining university web content
Implementation Timeline
Web governance structures will be applied as websites are updated or migrated to the university’s new platforms. As part of this transition, each site will be aligned with the governance model to support sustainable content practices and clearer roles moving forward.
That said, there’s no need to wait. Communications Directors, Liaisons, and Site Managers are encouraged to begin adopting these practices now. Sharing this framework with your teams and incorporating it into your current workflows will help ensure a smoother transition and strengthen your web presence—regardless of your site’s migration timeline.
Additional Resources