You’ve probably heard us talking about the new Extension website for some time, and we’re excited to announce that it will officially launch the week of March 1. The new system builds on the functionality of our current sites and introduces additional features, including improved accessibility checking and more flexible content layout options.

This long-awaited update is nearly here, and we want to ensure everyone feels prepared and confident before the launch. To support a smooth transition, we’ve scheduled several training sessions for Extension website editors. Training begins January 20 and is available for both county and topic site editors. Please register for the session that best aligns with your role.

We are currently offering the following training sessions:

COUNTY EMPLOYEES: Extension Websites 101 - *THIS SESSION IS FOR COUNTY-BASED EMPLOYEES* In this session, you will learn how to navigate our new website platform. We will provide you with an orientation to the new platform, including how to log in, find your way around, and post news articles and pages. We will also review the new features on our website. This session is county-focused and will use county-specific examples.

SPECIALIST/CAMPUS EMPLOYEES: Extension Websites 101 - *THIS SESSION IS FOR SPECIALISTS AND EMPLOYEES WHO POST ON TOPIC SITES* In this session, you will learn how to navigate our new website platform. We will provide you with an orientation to the new platform, including how to log in, find your way around, post news articles and pages, and manage your topic site. We will also review the new features on our website. This session is TOPIC-focused and will be using topic-specific examples.

ADMINS & WEBSITE MANAGERS: Administrative Tasks -  *THIS SESSION IS FOR COUNTY EMPLOYEES WHO MANAGE THE SMALLER DETAILS OF OUR WEBSITES* In this session, you will learn how to perform “administrative” tasks. These tasks include setting office hours, managing menus, and adding an alert message. If you are a person who manages the website for your county, please make sure you attend this training IN ADDITION TO the general website training we are also currently offering.

Please note that while most content from the existing sites will be migrated to the new system, it’s important for you to understand how to manage and update your content in the new system. Attending one of these training sessions is the best way to prepare for the transition and to have your questions answered.

After you attend a session, you will receive access to a temporary “sandbox” site where you can explore the features of the new system and work with your content in a safe environment. Additional details about the overall transition plan will be covered during the training sessions.

As always, please direct any support related questions to the EIT Helpdesk at 919-513-7000 or eithelpdesk@ncsu.edu. You can also reach out to me if you have any additional questions.