Page 10 - PAM - PROOF

V 1.1 February 2024

be but this meant that a one-size fits all approach wouldn’t work. We wanted
something that gave each u3a more control over content and creativity.

The solution was to opt for open-source software and to create our own solution
that matches the way we operate. This includes how we handle and display our
various groups, the ability to mix text and graphics together easily, and of course
the consistent look-and-feel of our u3a branding style and colour scheme.
The solution that u3a chose is Gutenberg WordPress based. A major benefit is
that WordPress is so widely used there is a lot of knowledge and support readily
available. If so many websites have been created using WordPress then it can’t
be that difficult, can it?

The Challenges
There have been, and still are, numerous challenges. The main ones are listed
below: -

• The majority of u3as are using a product to edit and maintain their website
that is approaching end-of-life. There is some urgency to provide a fully
operational alternative.
• The sheer size of the project is a challenge. Over 700 extant individual u3a
sites plus a number of new u3as joining the movement, together with the
particular requirements of national and regional sites, all make the
specification quite complex.

• Web Masters/Web Managers/Web Editors/Web Coordinators are all terms
used to describe the person or people who edit and maintain their u3a
website. These people have a very wide range of knowledge and
experience. They also have very different attitudes, motivations, and
expectations as regards this project.

• A major issue is that of resources. Migration of our websites from Site
Builder to SiteWorks requires a team effort at the time it happens.

• We are working to a tight timescale as it is proposed to turn off Site
Builder in December 2024 or as soon as possible thereafter.

SiteWorks Resources
A dedicated band of more than 60 volunteers have been pushing this project
forward. Cumulatively these people have contributed thousands of hours of
their time to make this happen. They are experienced project managers,
software experts, development experts, testing experts, process experts,
administrative experts, plus training, communications, and support professionals.
Despite having 60+ volunteers who have taken on many different roles in this
project there are never enough people or enough hours in the day to do
everything that needs to be done.

Workbook for Web Managers Migrating to u3a SiteWorks Page 10