A students' union is using the latest technology to ensure its members make the most of their time on campus.

The University of Sussex Students' Union (USSU) is introducing a cross-platform information system in time for the forthcoming term.

It includes a new web site www.myunion.info for information about the union's activities and also enables students to register for text message updates.

The site has information for current students, while the union's existing site, www.ussu.net, has been redesigned to provide information for people outside the university alongside student essentials.

A third site will be available on the union's extranet for members of the student academic representative scheme (STARS).

Web site manager Alan Walsh said the new developments put the union at the forefront of UK student sites.

He said: "We've done lots of research and we're pretty sure this is one of the most comprehensive, university-specific resources."

The new site, designed by students, includes a news feeder to keep visitors up to date with happenings in and around the union and on campus.

It also offers regular updates on local, national and international news with links to other web sites.

Visitors who want to access other areas of the site, which cover issues such as union activities, campus life, representation and advice for students, have to register.

Students complete an online form, on which they can choose what they want to receive information about by email or text message, from beer promotions and gigs to advice and union elections.

Mr Walsh said: "We've introduced text messages because you very rarely see students without a mobile phone and this means they can receive information any time.

They don't have to be on campus or even online."

Earlier this year, USSU developed an online directory www.ineedaplace.co
.uk to enable students to search for and advertise properties.

www.myunion.info
www.ussu.net
www.ineedaplace.co.uk