You spoke; we listened. Since our last update on our FCC.gov modernization project, we built a new Beta (i.e. test) version of FCC.gov based on your input, and we need your feedback again. Building upon the foundation of extensive user research done earlier this year – and coupled with additional input we will receive during this Beta period – the new FCC.gov will be more useful and accessible to FCC stakeholders.
Check out the Beta site at https://prototype.fcc.gov and please tell us what you think. What works? What doesn't? And don't worry: you can still access the old content and features at FCC.gov while we perfect the new site.
What's New?
The new Beta site is Drupal-based and responsive, meaning the display will optimize based upon the device you are using to view the site such as PC, mobile phone, or tablet.
The Beta website is also connected to our document databases, EDOCS and ECFS, via application programming interfaces (APIs). The APIs allow real-time EDOCS and ECFS updates to display in 'Headlines' and 'Most Active Proceedings'. FCC applications will also be updated and increasingly cloud-based, similar to our new Consumer Help Desk.
All of the content that resides on the current FCC.gov has already been migrated to the new, Drupal-based site. We are currently integrating this content into new information architecture, meaning additional and improved ways of accessing and interacting with all the information currently available on FCC.gov.
Finally, with considerable help from FCC's Bureau and Office staff, we have created a new taxonomy that will be used to classify web content. This will allow us to use Drupal features that make search easier, allow for better content discoverability across the site, and automate lists of content on a variety of topics.
Next Steps
We will be looking for your feedback, and encourage you to keep an eye on the Beta site for bi-weekly code updates, new content, and blog updates highlighting what’s changing.
Based on the additional feedback we receive during the website's extended Beta period, we intend to complete the switch to the new site fully later this fall with more details to be shared in the weeks ahead.
On behalf of everyone at FCC, thanks for all of the feedback we've received to date. You can continue submitting input for consideration and/or any bugs you find on https://prototype.fcc.gov/ via a web form or email.