Basics

Server (Hosting)

• What is it? A powerful computer that hosts your website, ensuring it is always accessible.
• Why is it important? If the website is not hosted on a server, it simply does not exist online. A good server ensures the website operates quickly and reliably 24/7.

Domain (www address)

• What is it? This is the name of your website, e.g. www.manoinstitucija.lt
• Why is it important? A domain allows people to easily find your website. Without it, users cannot access the information you wish to provide.
• Learn more in English – Wikipedia on domains

URL

• What is it? This is the full address of the website, e.g., https://www.manoinstitucija.lt/kontaktai
• Why is it important? The URL indicates the exact location of the page content – this helps both users and search engines navigate.
• Learn more in English – Wikipedia on URLs

Browser

• What is it? A programme you use to access websites (e.g., Chrome, Firefox).
• Why is it important? Websites appear differently across various browsers – it is crucial to test that everything functions for all visitors.
• Learn more in English – Wikipedia on web browsers

Website Management

Content Management System (CMS)

• What is it? A user-friendly tool that allows you to change website text, images, and other content without needing a programmer.
• Why is it important? Saves you time and money – you can update information yourself without having to consult specialists each time.
• Learn more in English – Wikipedia on CMS

Email with your domain

• What is it? An email address that looks professional, e.g., [email protected]
• Why is it important? Enhances the institution’s credibility and strengthens its image – users are more likely to trust emails from official addresses.
• Learn more in English – Wikipedia on email

Visitor Statistics

• What is it? Data on how many people visited your website, when, and what they viewed.
• Why is it important? Helps you understand which information is most relevant to visitors – you can improve or highlight it.
• Learn more in English – Wikipedia on web analytics

WordPress

• What is it? One of the most popular content management systems, allowing easy creation and administration of websites.
• Why is it important? Public institutions can independently manage their website without IT specialists – it is cheaper, faster, and more flexible.
• Learn more in English – Wikipedia on WordPress

Self-management of the website

• What is it? The ability to change content yourself – text, images, documents.
• Why is it important? Ensures that the website reflects accurate and up-to-date information – without delays or intermediaries.
• Learn more in English – gov.uk on management

Accessibility

WCAG Guidelines

• What is it? Rules outlining how to create accessible websites for people with disabilities.
• Why is it important? Public institutions are required to ensure digital accessibility – this is mandated by laws and EU directives.
• Learn more in English – Wikipedia on WCAG

Alternative Text (alt text)

• What is it? Titles or descriptions provided in place of images for users with visual impairments.
• Why is it important? Ensures that all users can understand the website content – even those unable to see images.
• Learn more in English – W3C on alt text

Colour Contrast

• What is it? The difference between the text and background colours.
• Why is it important? Poor contrast makes reading difficult – it is essential to ensure good visibility for older users or those with visual impairments.
• Learn more in English – WebAIM