(2-minute read)
The project began in May 2021 with funding to make the website adaptable for all users. “The greatest part of leading this initiative was the collaborative efforts between content experts, the web development team, Information Technology and our external vendors,” says Jennifer Keays the project manager. “To achieve our vision, each conversation was challenged with “outside-the-box” thinking.”
One of its goals was to get all staff and students using available resources and to maintain good relationships between national and international working groups. This remodeling of the website also aimed to provide support not only to students, but to alumni and the community as well. Another goal was to ensure working groups could access the content they needed.
The first new initiative was the Wellness Continuum on the home page. Designed to limit overall time spent searching for information, this function allows users to quickly locate content tailored to them in the most streamlined way possible. It is divided into four categories based on the severity of the situation: thriving, managing, struggling, and in crisis. Four visuals enable users to understand the content they are navigating. Having these sections clearly labelled adds to the user experience of the website.
Immediate Wellness Support is a special functionality to assist individuals whose circumstances require more immediate attention. It is unique in that most uOttawa webpages do not have something similar. It was added to every page on the Health and Wellness website to optimize access. When clicked, it directs you to the Immediate Support page that enables individuals to access twenty-four-hour services.
"I really appreciate the Wellness Support button that follows us on the pages. Being able to talk to someone about my midterm stress helped immensely." - Mutahir Butt
Another tool that was added is the Peer Wellness Chat. This tool was set up to respond quickly to those looking for support in an emergency. The service runs daily from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. The form to connect with someone is short and straightforward to maximize efficiency. It is not interchangeable with a crisis hotline but can still support those in stressful situations during hours of operation. If someone uses the chat function while the service is offline for the day, they are contacted as soon as possible the following business day.
These newly integrated functions reinforce the University’s intention of providing campus-wide solutions to facilitate collaboration. “We were aiming for a product that supports a culture of wellness for the entire campus community, and I sincerely believe that everyone involved has helped us meet this objective.” Keays exclaims. “I am extremely excited to continue working on this project!”