DHS Launches YouTube Channel and Website Redesign
Posted Jul 31, 2009
©MurthyDotCom
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a press release on July 22, 2009 stating that it has launched a DHS channel on the popular website, YouTube. The channel is now online and has links to similar channels for component agencies including: the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), U.S. Coast Guard, Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
©MurthyDotCom
Helpful Travel Information
©MurthyDotCom
The DHS WebSite includes informative travel videos on a variety of topics, including the US-VISIT Program, with helpful information to assist travelers to the U.S. better understand what to expect when entering the United States. There is also an explanation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative, as well as changes to the Visa Waiver Program.  
©MurthyDotCom
DHS Website Revamped
©MurthyDotCom
It was also announced that the official DHS WebSite has been redesigned. Long-time readers of MurthyDotCom and the MurthyBulletin may recall the last time the U.S. government changed its immigration-related websites, which was reported in our February 28, 2003 NewsBrief entitled, DHS Watch: New Immigration Website. In the July 22, 2009 press release, it was announced that these steps were taken to increase DHS web presence, transparency, and to provide accurate, up-to-date information to the U.S. public.
©MurthyDotCom
Conclusion
©MurthyDotCom
We here at the Murthy Law Firm commend the DHS for taking additional steps to make their website more user-friendly, making use of social media to create a better dialogue between the agency and their consumers or clients. It is often easier for the public, particularly those for whom English is not their first language, to understand information presented in an audio / visual format, which is easily accessible, rather than relying upon written explanations alone.