[OPLINTECH] OPLIN Website Changes

[Joel Husenits]

When OPLIN announced the steps it was taking to reduce costs and
streamline operations, one of the things we mentioned was redesigning
the OPLIN website.  The redesign project has been quietly moving forward
for several months while we completed other parts of our makeover.  It's
now moved to the front of the "to do" list here at OPLIN, and you'll
begin to hear more about it in the coming months.
 
Our goals are to:
*         Reduce costs by migrating to OPLIN-managed Web servers.
*         Reduce the editorial burden and eliminate the need for regular
contributing editors.
*         Improve the detection and authorization for both in-library
and remote users of OPLIN subscription databases.
*         Give greater prominence to Discover Ohio and the Research
Databases.
 
We want to thank everyone who took the time at the Stakeholders Meeting
to provide feedback to the design team.  The general direction is now
set.  We can tell you, for example, that the Web links directory has
been largely scaled back, but persistent navigation will continue for: 
 
*         Find an Ohio Public Library
*         Research Databases
*         Discover Ohio
*         What Tree is It?
*         What's that Snake?
*         What's the Point?
*         OH! Kids
*         OH! Teens
*         OH! Teach
 
Standard Web features such as About OPLIN, Disclaimers, Contact Us,
Search, and so on will also be retained.  Watch for additional messages
outlining not only organization and design, but database-related
improvements.  
 
When will we be finished?  Our goal is January 1st, but we would rather
do it right than have it "on time" in this case.  We will announce the
final date at least 30 days in advance.  
 
Will you need to make changes?  We are already moving to www.oplin.org
<http://www.oplin.org/> , and anticipate a seamless move to the new site
at that address.  However, those of you that link directly to databases
should be aware that those links will change.   We will make that
information widely available in advance of the change.
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