Launching a Site

There are a few scenarios for a site launch. If we are developing a brand new site, "launched" may just be a state of mind; we develop the site using the same URL that it will have when we "launch" it. When we declare it launched, it's launched.

If we are developing a new version of an old site, we typically request a test alias for the site. Englishtest.gmu.edu, for instance. When it is time to launch:

• Verify that the site's decision-maker is ready to launch the site
• Use the ITU "Multiple Request for Same Server" form to:
• Change the current alias to point to our server. (english.gmu.edu)
• Remove the test alias. (englishtest.gmu.edu). 

In some cases, there may also be a need to set up a redirect from an existing URL to the new site. For instance, a unit is changing its name and therefore has a new URL. If the old URL is already pointing to our server, we can handle the redirect in the Unicorn configuration files. If it is not, contact the webmaster and ask for a redirect.