What Is a Subsite?
A subsite is a streamlined web presence that lives within the larger division website—think of it as a “site within a site.” It allows departments, programs, or initiatives to have their own dedicated space, complete with a customized navigation experience, while still remaining connected to the broader ecosystem.
With the subsite option, the primary navigation adapts to reflect your content and priorities, giving users a focused experience. At the same time, global elements like breadcrumbs maintain context, helping visitors understand where they are within the larger site.
This approach is ideal for teams that need more than a single page, but don’t require the overhead of managing a fully standalone website.
Why This Option Exists
Not every department needs or benefits from a separate, standalone website. Subsites provide a flexible middle ground:
- Right-sized presence without the complexity of a full site
- Faster to launch and easier to maintain
- Consistent branding and accessibility standards across the division
- Improved discoverability, supported by global navigation and site search
- Mobile-friendly, user-centered design out of the box
Subsites allow teams to tell their story, share resources, and serve their audiences effectively—without fragmenting the web ecosystem.
Best Practices for Building a Subsite
A subsite works best when it’s intentional, focused, and easy to navigate. Before building, take time to define what truly needs to exist.
- Keep It Focused
Start with a clear purpose. What are users coming here to do? Build only what supports that goal. - Limit Page Count
Aim for a small, high-impact set of pages. More pages don’t equal more value—clarity wins. - Avoid Deep Navigation
Keep your structure shallow. Ideally, users should find what they need within 1–2 clicks. Deep hierarchies create friction and confusion. - Prioritize User Experience
Design for scanning. Use clear headings, concise copy, and logical groupings so users can quickly find information. - Be Intentional with Content
Strong, clear wording improves both usability and SEO. Write with real user questions in mind. - Leverage Search and Findability
Your content is still part of the broader site and benefits from enhanced search functionality. Even with fewer pages, well-structured content ensures users can find what they need. - Stay Consistent
Align with the division’s design system and content standards to maintain a cohesive experience across all subsites.