Below is a step by step guide to getting started using Drupal at Appalachian. If you have questions about this process or if your project has unique needs outside of this process, please contact the CMS Team.
Step 1 - Get ready
Before you can begin, you should define your project. This includes: identifying content to be deleted, updated, or added; developing a project timeline; defining features needed on the site; identifying individuals who will edit or manage the site; and clarifying the roles and responsibilities of those individuals.
Step 2 - Contact your Drupal Administrator
Contact your Drupal Admininstrator to let him/her know that you are ready to begin work on a new Drupal site. He/she will serve as the Drupal coordinator for your area and can provide you with support and training. If you are not sure who your Drupal Administrator is, please contact the CMS Team.
Step 3 - Request a Drupal development site
With the approval of your Drupal Administrator, submit the Request a New Drupal Site form. The CMS Team will create a Drupal development site for you to use for the duration of your project. The CMS Team will contact you with information about how to access your new development site.
Step 4 - Build your new site
With your Drupal development site, you can begin adding content. If you need Drupal training, sign up for a Drupal workshop or consult with your Drupal Administrator. Consult the Web Policy to be sure your site meets the university requirements. If you would like to consult with the Web Communications team on specific Drupal applications, site architecture, or custom site development, please contact us for availability and scheduling.
Step 5 - Request a site review
When your development site is completed and you are ready to make it live, contact your Drupal Administrator and ask him/her to request a site review. A site review is provided by a subcommittee of the Web Council. The review findings may include items that must be corrected on your site before it can go live. It may also include optional recommendations.
Step 6 - Go live
Once you have passed the site review, your Drupal Administrator and the CMS Team will make your site live and repoint any domain names and redirect pages as needed.
