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Explore the evolution of the Dallas Branch ASCE website and newsletter, success in awards, key statistics, communication basics, evaluation criteria, and other important aspects for improving outreach. Learn about website analytics, effective communication strategies, and criteria for evaluating website and newsletter content.
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Improving Your Section/Branch Newsletter & Website Sean P. Merrell, P.E., PTOE Dallas Branch President & Communications Chair Texas Section Centennial Celebration Chair
History of Dallas ASCE Website • Feb 2007 - Houston Branch contracted with Schipul to create branch website - $10,000 • Sep 2008 - Dallas Branch copied template from Houston - $3,000 • 2010 & 2011 - Won Outstanding Section & Branch Web Award
Website/Newsletter Stats • Web hosting - $395/month (500 - 2,500 members) • $195/month (150 – 500 members) • $99/month (<150 members) • 2,500 receive electronic newsletter • 1,518 Subscribing members in Dallas Branch • 50 website/newsletter sponsors • $200 to sponsor for 1 year • Meeting sponsorship $100 off if website/newsletter sponsor • 175 – 200 RSVP for meetings online each month • 2/3 pay online via Paypal
Website Analytics • Google Analytics – FREE!! • http://www.google.com/analytics/ • Recent site usage stats • 1,153 Visits • 4,353 Page views • 3.78 Pages/Visit • 02:36 Avg. Time on Site
Other Communication Media • Snail mail (post cards) • Social Media • Facebook • Google + • Linkedin • Twitter • Youtube
Communication Basics • Who is your audience • Members • Civil Engineers (Non-Members) • Younger members/students • POTENTIAL CLIENTS • Share ideas (social media) • Clear message • Too little information bad • Too much information worse • Update frequently • Timely posting of info • Set deadlines for material
Website Evaluation Criteria • Navigation • Use of correct ASCE logo/shield • Attractive design /layout • Effective use of space • Effective use of graphics/banners to convey important information • Deduct for articles/graphics that appear cluttered or disarrayed • Clear consistent style - no more than 3 fonts used on any page • Articles are relevant to a large cross section of members • The most important/news worthy articles are featured on home page • Deduct for each grammatical error • Regional and national issues addressed in articles • Newsletter is on website • Hotlinks • Branch (if applicable) • Younger Members (if applicable) • Student Chapters • Section and Branch Local Committees • Media/Public Relations Contact
Website Evaluation Criteria • Calendar of upcoming events • Listing of local officers & committee chairs • Recognition of current local achievers/awardees • President’s Message • Membership information • Feedback page • Link to ASCE national web site • Effective use of photos • Timeliness of information • Job Listings • ASCE Central number listed (1-800-548-ASCE) • ASCE/GSD staff contact listed • Branch news on Section Web Site • Any unique features/articles