Government of Canada Internet Guide

Future Considerations

This section focuses on long-term issues you should consider after the successful implementation of your Web initiative.

Keeping up with Technology Trends

Stay current with Internet technologies and applications. A Web team should do the following:

• use the Web to gather information and see what others are doing;
• access journals and magazines that discuss Internet developments;
• evaluate new technologies that may be relevant to your service objectives; and
• attending professional conferences and workshops.

Know how these technologies are evolving, but before moving to adopt them, be sure to revisit your institutional objectives. Not all services delivered over the Web need the latest and greatest technologies. On the other hand, some technologies do a much better job of achieving certain goals. You need to be well informed to know the difference.

The following is a list of questions to ask yourself when looking ahead.

• Is there potential for a Web initiative in any new or existing program area?
• What kind of services would most effectively be delivered over the Web?
• What impact will a new or enhanced Web initiative have on staff and clients?
• Will a new or enhanced Web initiative provide more effective service to existing clients?
• Should policies and procedures be revised to ensure that clients receive the on-line services they seek?
• Are there any new legislation, policies and standards or institutional guidelines to be followed?
• Should new legislation, policies and standards be created to ease the creation of a Web initiative? For example, do you need more help to plan, implement and evaluate a Web initiative?

Long-Term Actions

• Keep a watchful eye out for cybersquatting incidents and be aware of when you have to re-register domain names.
• Check back periodically with search engines and directories to see that you are still listed.
• Use surveys, interviews, focus groups and tracking information to assess the success and popularity of your site. When conducting surveys on-line, ensure that privacy safeguards are adequate.