Introduction to LTS technical development standards
This introduction explains why we have technical standards. It outlines LTS procedures for monitoring and reviewing technical standards, and introduces the governing principles on which these technical standards are built.
Why technical development standards?
At LTS, we must ensure that the development of online content follows internationally accepted standards and specifications. This will provide LTS with content of a consistent type and style that will maximise the viability, integrity and portability of content throughout the life of the LTS Online Service and beyond.
We must also comply with UK Government guidelines.
UK Government Web Development Guidelines
Content developed by or procured by LTS should conform to the UK Government Web Development Guidelines. Specifically, all content developed or commissioned by LTS must conform to the eGovernment Interoperability Framework (eGIF) Version 5, and the Guidelines for UK Government Websites – specifically, the eAccessibility Guidelines and the Illustrated Handbook for Web Management Teams.
LTS obligations regarding technical development standards
We need to fulfil these obligations:
- We must consult with relevant organisations, user groups and multimedia content developers in establishing, implementing and reviewing all relevant technical standards.
- We must proactively review and, where appropriate, evolve standards to reflect knowledge and practice derived from development, deployment and use of online content for our Online Service.
- We must contribute to the development of national and international standards that address the development of rich media content. We will do this through the ongoing acquisition and application of evolving knowledge and practice in the field.
Using, monitoring and reviewing these standards
Our standards are used in the development of all online content, whether developed or commissioned by LTS.
All our standards will be reviewed every six months by LTS during development and deployment of online content. Where updates and enhancements are made, information will be posted on the Web Standards and Guidelines site. At any time we welcome feedback on any of our adopted standards.
Governing principles for technical development standards
Our standards for the development of online content are built upon the RAID principle:
- Reusability
- Accessibility
- Interoperability
- Durability.