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Web Standard: Web Area URLs

Definitions

  • URLs are Universal Resource Locators, the address where a website lives.
  • This standard refers to www.epa.gov only.
  • The URLs will be in the form: https://19january2021snapshot.epa.gov/web-area-name/page-title
  • Drupal WebCMS automatically creates the URL based on the short name (defined after OWC approval when the web area is created).
    • A different URL (called a 'URL overwrite') can be created, if desired. 
    • Any name change requires approval by OWC.

Content Requirements

  • Each web area can only have one URL.
    • There will not be multiple URLs for the same web area.
  • Use all lowercase letters. The URL will be changed automatically to lowercase if typed with any uppercase letters.
    • Using mixed- or uppercase causes issues for search engines, users, and analytics tracking.
  • Use descriptive words. You want people to find the site using search.
  • Really need a shorter URL?
    • Use https://go.usa.gov/ , the official U.S. government URL shortener
    • Use the page node number
      • Example: http://www.epa.gov/node/41353​ instead of using http://www.epa.gov/product-review/how-avoid-multiple-rounds-owc-review-when-creating-new-resource-directories-and

Examples

  • Water Research can be: (pick one)
    • /water-research/
    • /waterresearch/
    • /h2oresearch/
  • CAMEO (Computer-Aided Management of Emergency Operations) can be: (pick one)
    • /computer-aided-management-emergency-operations/
    • /cameo/

About this Standard

All EPA public web content must adhere to the EPA Web Standards, the U.S. Web Design System guidelines, and the 21st Century Integrated Digital Experience Act.

Original effective date: 11/14/2012
Last approved on: 07/08/2020
Web Council review by: 07/08/2023 (or earlier if deemed necessary)