Components of a good web site ...
| Content |
The cornerstone of your site
is content. There is no substitute. Design and presentation should
enhance your content, not obscure it. |
| Courtesy |
Visitors come to your web site voluntarily and can leave it in
a click. You can't force them to stay. Encourage them to make
return visits by providing an engaging environment.
Your visitors will appreciate the care you take to produce a
site that:
- is easy to read (and print, if necessary)
- allows them to find information quickly
- works well on a variety of browsers
- is considerate of people with disabilities
(see http://www.cast.org/bobby/
)
- provides links to useful information - even if that link is
to another site (a good example of this is the highly successful
http://www.yahoo.com/ )
- doesn't force them to download a plug-in they may not have
(supply an alternative presentation to flash or multimedia features)
- reassures parents that your site is safe for young people
(see http://www.icra.org/
)
|
| Consistency |
Create a user-friendly
web site by using a consistent theme (logo and color scheme) throughout
the site. |
| Continuity |
Select your web site
name carefully and maintain it. It takes time for sites to get established
on the web. An effective Internet presence requires continuity.
|
| Relationships |
Your web site can allow you to establish ongoing relationships
with your visitors by allowing them to interact with you
* Use forms they can submit to request information
* Request information from them about their experiences
with you
* Have contests, a game or a puzzle
It is also important to consider your relationships with other
web sites. Sites with related content or goals can work together
to promote each other.
|
