April 29, 2010

ISU web pages hit the small screen

by Diana Pounds

Several Iowa State websites have been designed for easy viewing on cell phones and other handheld devices. Among sites optimized for small screens are the faculty, staff and student directory; an ISU news site; and especially for students, an up-to-date list of available washing machines and dryers in residence hall laundry rooms.

These and several other sites are available at m.iastate.edu. Jim Twetten, director in information technology services, expects more sites to appear in the coming months. IT staff will continue to develop sites and will advise and assist other university units in creating their own mobile-friendly sites.

"Not every web page is a good candidate for a mobile site," Twetten said. "The best mobile pages offer quick information that people typically need when they're out and about. "