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Abandoned Website Protocols
- Related Documents: Website Standards & Guidelines Framework; Website deletion protocols
- Unit Responsible: Digital Publishing, Computing and Communications Services (CCS)
- Updated: 12-12-2024
1. Purpose
This policy establishes the guidelines and criteria for identifying and deleting abandoned websites. It supports the purpose outlined in the Website Standards & Guidelines Framework. Regular monitoring and removal of outdated or abandoned websites will help ensure the efficient use of resources, protect against security vulnerabilities, and support a positive user experience on any ³ÉÈË´óÆ¬ (³ÉÈË´óƬ) website.
The policy applies to any websites and associated digital properties, including the Adobe Experience Manager Web Content Management System (AEM WCMS), managed by ³ÉÈË´óƬ.
2. Definition of an abandoned website
- A ³ÉÈË´óÆ¬ website may be deemed abandoned if it meets the following criteria:
- Lack of compliance: The website does not meet accessibility, security, branding, or organizational standards and has not been updated (including broken links) within 60 days of notification.
- Lapsed ownership: The original requestor or sponsor for a new site is no longer affiliated with the website, department, or ³ÉÈË´óƬ, and no new owner has been identified or assigned.
- Inactivity: The website has not been updated, modified, or maintained for 24 months or more.
- Low traffic: The website consistently shows low user engagement over 24 months.
- No business purpose: The website no longer aligns with its original goals and or objectives and no longer supports a strategic priority. The website is no longer relevant.
3. Process for identifying and deleting abandoned websites
See: Website deletion protocols
4. Exceptions
- The website serves an essential, infrequent purpose (e.g. seasonal or event-based websites; annual reports; course calendars; and/or content required for legal purposes).
- The website has historical or archival value important to the university.
- Website Is part of ongoing research or special projects.