Web Report CardFunction falters on Texas A&M University site

Function trumps style on the Web, and that’s where this site falters

Grade: C

Type of Site: University Audience(s): Students, potential students, visitors, media

Content: We thought it was a good idea that Texas A&M called their podcast section iTunes U. Like it or not, the iTunes brand is synonymous with easily downloadable, legitimate content, and more people know what iTunes is than know what a podcast is. This is a great way to draw in users to new technology without intimidating them. We think it’s a great idea to host your site’s content on a high-profile external site like the iTunes store. However, we would also have liked to see Texas A&M offer users the option of accessing their podcast without having to leave the site.