Drupal Assistance
Definition
Drupal is a content management system, and it is used to create and maintain webpages without knowing the tools and languages used by programmers.
Setup and Implementation
ETS recommends that you run your Drupal website(s) on webservers operated by the University Technology Office (UTO). All software required by Drupal has already been installed on these servers.
To obtain a website, request a "web hosting account" from the Web Hosting Accounts page. The account is used to manage your website and install Drupal.
After installing Drupal, there is a lengthy configuration process to complete before creating webpages. Major configuration areas include themes, security and third-party add-ons.
Themes
Themes apply a standard look and feel to all of your webpages regarding fonts, colors, headings, and footers. The official ASU theme meets the ASU standards for these settings and is mandatory for most websites. Details and themes are available through the links below.
Security
There are several security issues to consider. First is when to require logins. Many sites only require logins when updating webpages and posting comments, with logins not required just to browse. Second is whether to login using Drupal or ASURITE accounts. Third is the amount of control imposed on webpage authors; for example, some websites let all authors update any webpage, while others use third-party add-ons to restrict which pages each author can change.
Third-Party Add-Ons
Drupal's capabilities can be extended using third-party add-ons written by others. There are several that are commonly used, such as Date, Event, Image, Pathauto, Views, and the Content Construction Kit (CCK). ASU has written its own add-ons to handle searches, logins, and the ASU Directory.
Moving Existing Websites To Drupal
If you are moving an existing website to Drupal, be aware that the only way of doing so is to move each webpage via cut and paste, and to update its links yourself. We are not aware of any software that can import an existing website into Drupal.
Maintenance
Drupal needs to be updated several times a year with new versions that eliminate security problems. It is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process - be ready for it.
Training and Assistance
Training workshops are provided as-needed. Contact the ASU web consulting group for the current schedule.
Walk-in assistance is available; see the link below for the schedule.
The ASU Drupal User's Group meets every month; see their link below for details.
Resources
ASU Drupal Help Index
ASU Drupal Resources
ASU Drupal User's Group
ASU End User Guide
ASU Theme - Download and Policies
ASU Theme - Installation
ASU Web Consulting Group
ASU Web Hosting Accounts
Internet Resources