SimpleSite Transition Guide

Help Center → SimpleSite Help Center → SimpleSite Transition Guide

SimpleSite was phased out on June 16, 2010.

The functionality of SimpleSite can be met by other Catalyst tools, other services provided by UW Technology, and other Web-authoring software. Use this guide to help you get started in your transition to other tools.

If you would like additional assistance, send an email to catalysthelp@uw.edu or drop by the 2nd floor of Odegaard library for in-person help.

Build a Course or Project Web Site with CommonView

Use Catalyst CommonView to create a Web site or workspace for your class or project. You can restrict access by UW NetID or make the workspace accessible to the general public. CommonView enables you to quickly and easily put information, links, and files online in one easy-to-access location. You can also add Catalyst tools to a CommonView workspace, such as a Collect It dropbox or GoPost discussion board. Integrate the tools into your class site to provide context and access for your students. Organizing information and resources is a snap with CommonView.

Learn more | How to Migrate from SimpleSite to CommonView | Help Center

Upload and Download Files

To upload or download files from your account, you can use either Catalyst File Manager or a file transfer program. File Manager is a Web-based tool that allows you to access your Web directory and upload or download files. You can also use other software to transfer files from your desktop to your Web directory.

File Manager Help Center | Moving Files to Your Web Directory

Build a Customized Web Site

To create a personal, project, or departmental Web site, you can use third-party Web authoring software or a Web-based content management system (CMS). While these tools initially require more time to learn and set up, they also provide flexible and customizable design and layout. Web authoring software includes Adobe Dreamweaver, which is available on many campus computers including LST's Computing Centers. You could also use Google sites, an online tool that is part of the UW Google Apps suite of services, or download and install WordPress, a Web-based blog and CMS tool, on your personal or shared account.

Dreamweaver Help Center | UW Google Apps | Installing WordPress

Edit Existing Web Pages Created with SimpleSite

To edit existing Web pages created with SimpleSite, you can also use third-party Web authoring software. Again, we recommend Adobe Dreamweaver, because it is available on many campus computers including LST's Computing Centers. We even offer free workshops on using Dreamweaver. You can access the schedule and workshop curriculum at the links below.

Dreamweaver Help Center | LST Workshops Schedule | LST Web Publishing Curriculum

Restrict Access to Web Site or Files

To restrict access to files on your Web site with a password, or to the students registered for your class, you can create .htaccess files (the same technology used in SimpleSite). To restrict access your site, follow the step-by-step instructions on the IT Connect pages below.

Password Protection with UW NetID | Authorizing Participants in a Course | Basic Password Protection

Track Web Site Statistics

You can continue to use Webalizer, the open-source tool SimpleSite used to provide Web site statistics, on your own to create reports and analyze your log data. You can also use Google Analytics, a free Web traffic analysis tool. View the IT Connect page below for more details and helpful links.

Tracking Web Site Usage

Use Cloud Services for Class and Project Sites and Collaboration

Coming soon for faculty and staff: UW Google Apps and UW Windows Live. Use these cloud services to create a Web site; create, store, and share documents, and other files with your class and project group; conduct real-time text chat or voice calls over the Internet; and more.

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