FLAGSTAFF, AZ – In a bid to improve the user experience and accessibility for students, faculty, staff, and the general public, Northern Arizona University (NAU) has recently launched a revamped website (https://nau.edu). The new website aims to provide a more intuitive and seamless browsing experience, better showcasing the university’s offerings, resources, and vibrant campus culture.
With a user-centered approach, NAU has reimagined its website to be more user-friendly and responsive across different devices. The homepage presents visitors with a clean, modern design that immediately captures the essence of life on campus and highlights key features and announcements. The simplified navigation menu aids in locating information quickly, ensuring that visitors can easily find what they are looking for.
One significant improvement is the integration of accessibility features that make the website more inclusive. NAU recognizes the importance of ensuring that all members of the university community can access and utilize the website effectively. The website now adheres to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 – a set of internationally recognized standards that facilitate equal access to digital content. These enhancements include improved color contrast, scalable font sizes, and alternative text descriptions for images, among other measures.
To ensure that website visitors can take full advantage of the resources offered, several interactive tools have been included. Prospective students will benefit from the enhanced admissions and program information, comprehensive virtual tours, and dynamic campus maps. The revamped Career Services section provides easy access to internships, job listings, and career development resources, empowering students to kickstart their professional journeys.
Faculty and staff will also appreciate the upgraded functionality and resources tailored to meet their needs. The Faculty and Staff portal has been streamlined, offering improved access to payroll information, benefits, and professional development opportunities. Integration with the learning management system facilitates seamless communication and course management for instructors.
The website also highlights the vibrant campus culture and encourages community engagement. The Events section showcases a diverse range of activities, including student clubs, academic lectures, and performing arts events. The Athletic Department receives its dedicated space, keeping both students and fans updated with game schedules, scores, and news about the university’s teams.
One standout feature is the new sustainability portal, reflecting NAU’s commitment to environmental stewardship. This platform provides information on green initiatives, recycling programs, and sustainable practices on campus, empowering visitors to contribute actively to a more sustainable future.
NAU’s President, Dr. José Luis Cruz Rivera, expressed his excitement about the new website, stating, “Our revamped website is a testament to our commitment to fostering innovative and inclusive learning environments. We are confident that it will greatly facilitate access to information, connect with prospective and current students, and showcase the remarkable achievements of our faculty, staff, and students.”
The website redesign project was undertaken in collaboration with a team of web experts and stakeholders from various university departments. Extensive market research, user feedback, and usability testing were conducted to ensure that the new website meets the diverse needs of its visitors.
As NAU continues to evolve, it recognizes the significance of a dynamic web presence and remains committed to providing an exceptional digital experience for all its users. The launch of the revamped website (https://nau.edu) marks a significant milestone in this journey, improving accessibility, enhancing user experience, and showcasing the vibrant NAU community to the world.
Link to the website: nau.edu
