ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - Staying on top of news and information at Aberdeen Proving Ground just got easier. Army officials unveiled a new Internet portal for the installation June 10.
The installation is home to many tenant commands and organizations. The new portal page, online at <a href="http://www.army.mil/apg">www.army.mil/apg</a>, is a collaborative effort between these units.
"This is a team effort," said Garrison Commander Col. Orlando Ortiz. "We are committed to keeping our Soldiers, Family Members and civilian employees informed and educated about what is happening on this installation."
With the Base Realignment and Closure process ongoing, thousands of new employees are coming to APG. Ortiz said there is a need to tell the installation story using all available communication venues.
"The portal page will be the jumping off point for all kinds of information -- from newcomer in-processing, to community support and social media, you name it," Ortiz said.
Ortiz said the garrison's recent social media efforts have garnered great public support.
"We just surpassed 2,000 fans on the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/APGMd">garrison's Facebook page</a>, and we have a following on <a href="http://twitter.com/USAGAPG">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/usagapg/">Flickr</a>," he said. "This is an indicator that we have a community seeking a dialogue with us on the Internet. We want people to know we're here and we have answers to their questions."
The portal page uses the Army CORE system "to manage public communications for effect." The CORE is an online content management system, which allows Army public affairs offices to contribute images, videos, news releases and more to a central site that offices worldwide can see and use.
An editor quickly evaluates and posts new information. The CORE offers Army branding, a consistent interface and multimedia hosting. Many major installations have already transitioned to the Army.mil look and feel, such as Forts Huachuca, Jackson and Rucker.
For APG, a new feature will be the online video news program "APG Newswatch." The 15-minute, monthly program will be available from the portal site.
Officials said the portal page has links to all major tenant units and organizations along the left-hand navigation column, including links to Garrison Services. The U.S. Army Garrison, APG Web site is still active.
Along the bottom of the new portal, visitors will find links to social media, BRAC information and APG job openings.
"Our goal is to create a place where people can visit daily and always find new content," Ortiz said. "This portal is all about better serving the community."
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