NCLA Strategic Initiatives Task Force: Improve Online Presence

Abstract

Volume 70 Issue 2, Fall / Winter 2012 1. Web Committee Changes a. We recommend that the Web Committee have its scope and name changed to “Web and Technologies Support Committee” to recognize that NCLA’s online presence involves more than just the website. It also includes integrating and managing social media and other technologies. b. The Web Committee never had a mission/charge formalized. We propose that the mission of the renamed committee be written and potentially include: i. providing technical maintenance of the website, website training and content creation support ii. providing other technology support, such as implementation recommendations and training on technology and other related topics, such as webinars iii. administering various existing and future technologies (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, YouTube) by opening accounts, maintaining administrators, setting content policies and distributing participation. For example, one action would be to create an email account specifically to administer such accounts, and then giving appropriate people, including the NCLA Office Administrator, access to that account. This way password recovery,etc. will be centralized and not lost as members rotate responsibilities. c. Recruit technically-savvy committee members to provide support to the committee, the NCLA Executive Board, Sections & Roundtables, and promote the use of online technologies for reaching members. Membership of this committee should include a member of the proposed Marketing Committee. d. Utilize collaborative software like Basecamp to turn actions listed below into reality by breaking down actions and assigning them. 2. Survey NCLA members a. After the committee has been formalized and members recruited, launch a survey of our members on topics such as social media, website use, and communication preferences. b. Survey findings may influence the rest of the initiatives listed in this report, or reveal additional needs. c. Possibly conduct usability studies as major new features are added. 3. Survey NCLA Executive Board a. Also survey the Executive Board, sections and roundtables to determine technology support and communication needs. b. Survey findings may influence other initiatives listed in this report, or reveal additional needs. 4. Improve nclaonline.org a. Compared to other library associations, our website is in good shape. But it could be made better. Potential recommendations include: i. Changes to font and theme for a more modern feeling site ii. Find new pictures, additional graphics iii. Reduce number of events on homepage, making room for more information about what NCLA is and how to join iv. Put Facebook block and Twitter feed on homepage July 27, 2012 Submitted by Laura K. Wiegand Presented by Jennifer Meyer Task Force Members: Emily King, Jennifer Meyer, Eleanor Cook, Michael Crumpton, Robin Jordan