Background
EC branded standardised websites
- are the default solution to host DG specific content (policy), unless they have a specific communication purpose, such as a campaign, event, blog, network website, partnership website (see EC branded Harmonised websites)
- are strongly aligned with the core sites to provide seamless navigation between core and standardised sites
- Web information systems are permanent websites providing a user-friendly interface to generate, disclose and/or filter large, detailed amounts of data stored in different systems. These websites must also use the EC branded standardised websites design template.
Rules
URLs
According to Europa domain rules, EC branded standardised websites are hosted on the 3rd level domain of the Commission (ec.europa.eu), in keeping with the Commission's rules on URL structure.
Ownership
EC branded standardised websites are owned and managed by a DG/Agency, in line with the Europa Web Guide.
Site owners must
- get DG Communication's approval before starting a web project
- take responsibility for the content of their site(s)
- ensure compliance with all applicable Europa Web Guide rules
Creation and revamp
Creation and revamp of EC branded standardised websites must be approved by DG Communication 'Europa Web Communication' (COMM B3) through the revamps and new websites procedure (Restricted access).
Architecture
The architecture of the EC branded standardised websites extends the EC branded websites top-level architecture (15 classes).
Breadcrumbs
Rules
The first element of the breadcrumb must always be labelled 'Home' and must link to the homepage of the actual site where the current user page is located. The home page is followed by its child pages, e.g. Home > 1st level of the website > 2nd level > page title. Breadcrumbs should NOT be displayed on the homepage of a site.
Usability testing has proven that it is better to put the label 'Home' rather than the name of the site because it is:
- shorter
- more easily recognisable
- clearer
Exceptions: if a small site is integrated into a larger site - for technical reasons, for example - the first element of the breadcrumb may link to the homepage of the larger site.
Content
The content must follow the writing guidelines and be translated according to the language policy.
Design
EC branded standardised websites must follow general rules on logos and icons and EC branded specific design rules.
They must comply with accessibility rules.
Development
It is mandatory to build EC branded standardised websites using the Europa Web Publishing Platform (EWPP) except Web Information Systems for which the use of EWPP is optional.
Legal aspects
EC branded standardised websites must comply with Privacy, security and legal notices.
Contact and support
If you require further assistance, please contact:
European Commission
DG Communication
Unit B.3
Europa Web Communication