www.deerfieldalumni.org ... Anywhere,Anytime

by John G. Knight '83

Two months after the revamped alumni website was unveiled at www.deerfieldalumni.org, Director of Annual Support John G. Knight '83 polled the first 2400 registered users with the question: What is your favorite thing about the new site?

Replies came from alumni in the classes 1937 through 2005 and users resoundingly agreed the new site is more attractive, more intuitive and much more likely to warrant return visits. Comments such as, "The best features are the simplicity and functionality" and "it is far superior, (than the previous version) both in layout and navigation..." were typical.

By far the most compelling part of the new site for visitors is the dramatically enhanced Class Notes section. With the ability to submit a class note with a photo and the capability to sort notes by class or category, users enjoy the immediate availability of timely news from classmates and lots of fun photos. Most quotes received were similar to, "I love the Class Notes section" and "Being able to submit updates online is great!" Access to images in the Photo Galleries has helped connect far-flung alumni back to the school. A favorite reply in this category was, "The visuals... the visuals!" The ability to create your own username and password was mentioned as another big positive.

Registering for events, including Reunions and then viewing the attendance list for that event was a hit too. "Registering was really easy. It was also cool to see who is attending the event."

The biggest "complaint" was a plea for alumni to register on the site and "unhide" enough information so the directory search feature returns more names. While Deerfield's default setting adds security by hiding information, it limits search results only if we don't use the site!

In sum, www.deerfieldalumni.org is a great site that continues to improve with active use by a growing audience (that's you). Please take a moment to register and make your presence known! If you have questions or need assistance, contact Sandy Yager at syager@deerfield.edu