GCC Web Guidelines: GCC Web Guidelines

GCC Web Publication Guidelines

What we do, how and why we do it the way we do.

The purpose of our website is to
  • To give those looking for a church home a great first impression, a clear picture of what Grace is all about and make it easy for them to plan their first visit.
  • To encourage our members and attenders to take the next step in their spiritual journey and engage in growth opportunities.
The role of the church webmaster is to ensure:
  • Alignment with church mission, and purposes
  • High quality – an excellent first impression to those who will most likely visit our website to make a decision on attendance
  • Writing and visual consistency for effectiveness in communicating information.
  • Accuracy of information, as provided by ministries
  • Update technology as it becomes available by our service providers
  • Ensure integration usability of ACS tools (calendar, online registration, giving, etc.)

Structure and Design
The site is structured around the 5 purposes and logical user navigation rather than by ministry reporting structure or departments.

In terms of Ministry Information there are 2 types of content:
Static Pages (Ministry Brochures)
  • Ministry pages are designed to provide an overview of ministry objectives and general program information. These pages should remain relatively static unless the direction of the ministry changes.
Dynamic Content Pages
  • The “What’s Happening” Page provides an area for weekly message information, announcements and ministry highlights.
  • Event Registration Pages (ACS) – detailed descriptions of classes and events are highlighted.
  • Calendar – event description, dates, times, location
  • Volunteer Opportunities Page – each ministry can post their volunteer needs. (training in progress)Inquiry Forms – Ministry inquiry forms such as Community Group Sign Up, etc. are provided and can be customized as needed by ministry.
Web Writing Style
  • Because people read content differently online than they do in print we will write web content using the following guidelines:
  • “Chunk” text or break it into bite-sized pieces for quick, easy reading, utilizing bulleted list and scannable content.
  • Be direct, use active voice
  • Employ the inverted pyramid style of writing – place the main point in the first or second sentence and follow with details or link to details

Because Grace targets the unchurched or the seeker, we will avoid churchy language that an unchurched person may be confused or put off by.