In recent years, the University of Insubria has embarked on a structured programme to develop its web ecosystem, aiming to improve content quality, integration between information systems and the browsing experience for students, academic staff and university units.

Within this framework, the Web Ecosystem Coordination Hub works continuously on content governance, support for the distributed editorial network and the integration of digital services available through the University’s web channels.

This work is linked to the University’s digital transition, with a specific focus on organisational and editorial aspects and information quality, ensuring a consistent, accessible and seamless user experience.

The University’s web portals draw on contributions from numerous individuals and units, which produce and update content for different user groups.

Web ecosystem governance therefore plays a strategic role in ensuring:

• clear, high-quality information;
• consistent terminology and communication;
• regular content updates;
• accessibility and inclusion;
• alignment across institutional channels.

The Coordination Hub acts as a link between the units involved, providing support, common guidance and shared tools for managing web content and services.

The University’s web ecosystem consists of an integrated network of systems designed to support users throughout their information-seeking and administrative journeys.

In this area, coordination activities have focused on integrating and improving:

• the Course Catalogue, as a structured source of information on the University’s courses;
• UniFind, to showcase information about academic staff and their activities;
• institutional portals, including the English-language portal;
• departmental websites and service pages;
• specialist web services supporting students.

The aim is to ensure continuity of information, consistent content and straightforward navigation, reducing fragmentation and helping users find their way.

A significant part of the work on the web ecosystem has focused on improving the quality of content published on the University website through:

• reviewing and streamlining information;
• using a consistent template for page structure;
• ensuring content is accessible and easy to use;
• simplifying navigation;
• supporting the production of clear, up-to-date content.

These activities, which often take place behind the scenes, are essential to ensuring effective digital services and a high-quality user experience.

The web ecosystem also includes digital services designed to meet the specific needs of students and other users, integrating with existing information systems:

• the Tuition Fee Calculator, a tool providing guidance and transparency on student fees;
• InsubriaPlay, a platform for sharing and showcasing institutional video content;
• the ARIA chatbot, an AI-based virtual assistant that uses only content from the University’s web ecosystem to help users navigate its resources.

These services form an integral part of the web ecosystem, aligned with the University’s information pathways and official channels.

Work on the web ecosystem is conceived as an ongoing process that responds to evolving user needs, services and organisational requirements.

The Coordination Hub’s activities form part of the University’s wider policies to improve the quality of digital services and support teaching, working closely with the relevant units and contributing to the digital transition.

Coordination of the University’s Web Ecosystem is entrusted to a formally established cross-functional hub, responsible for providing a unified direction, editorial coordination and support for the distributed editorial network.

The Hub works closely with academic and administrative units, in line with the University’s strategic priorities.