Harvard University Information Technology (HUIT) has previously offered the OpenScholar platform for members of the Harvard community to create websites. As our community’s needs evolve, we’re changing our web services to offer new website platforms, and transitioning away from the existing Harvard OpenScholar platform. This means:
- All existing Harvard OpenScholar sites will need to be moved to a new web platform by November 2025.
- HUIT will continue to support all existing Harvard OpenScholar websites that are compliant with Terms of Use through November 2025.
- HUIT no longer offers new OpenScholar websites.
What will happen to existing Harvard OpenScholar websites?
Existing Harvard OpenScholar websites are based on the Drupal 7 web platform technology that is approaching its end of life. In early 2023, HUIT moved all Harvard OpenScholar websites to a new hosting provider to ensure their continued support beyond Drupal 7’s end of life and through November 2025. However, all existing Harvard OpenScholar sites will need to be moved to a new web platform by November 2025.
When and how will existing Harvard OpenScholar websites be moved to a new platform?
HUIT and School IT departments will soon begin contacting website owners directly with specific information. Please make sure your Harvard OpenScholar website’s owners and members are all correct and up-to-date in order to receive these communications.
What new platforms will be available?
HUIT will offer two new platforms, based on modern WordPress and Drupal 10 technologies, that provide:
- More functionality to meet a variety of needs, including better options for managing multiple websites.
- Greater security, reliability, support, and up-to-date software.
- Improved accessibility, design templates, appearance, and overall user experience.
Some Harvard Schools will also offer additional platforms to eligible affiliates.
Where can I get help?
Support for all existing Harvard OpenScholar websites is now provided by HUIT:
- You can find more information about this transition, including steps you can take to prepare, at ostransition.hwp.harvard.edu.
- If you need help with your existing website, or if you have questions or concerns about this upcoming change, please contact the HUIT Service Desk.