Too
Much Of A Good Thing...
Using the newest and flashiest effects on a site can backfire if used in an indiscriminate
fashion. Depending on the message you want to convey, the use of “bells
and whistles” can seriously detract from your site if they do not support
and enhance your content. Another very important consideration is how quickly
the page will download. How much speed will you sacrifice with the use of animated
graphics?
Perpetual
Motion...
This follows the paragraph above. Anything that is constantly in motion on a
web page will interrupt the concentration of the average visitor. Marquees, scrolling
text and flashing or constantly changing banners should be used sparingly. A
web page should not appear like the county fair seen from above…unless
that is what you are trying to promote.
I
Hear You Knocking, But You Can't Come In...
The text-based format of your URL (internet address) should be kept as simple
as possible. Potential visitors may have to type in your address to connect with
the site. An easy and descriptive address lessens the chances for error. Page
names should reflect the content accurately. Special characters and long titles
should be avoided. If you are serious about creating a presence on the internet,
a domain name is a must.
Where
In The World Am I?...
Each page on the site should contain unmistakable evidence of which web site
they belong to. Visitors may arrive at a given page by indirect means or other
than through the home page and there should be no mystery as to where they are.
There should also be clear navigational aids or links between all pages.
Keep
It Brief...
An indeterminate percentage of visitors will not venture beyond what is immediately
available when they reach the home page. The most critical content and navigational
links should be within the first screen shot. The pages within the site can be
longer depending on what they contain, but should still be kept as brief as possible.
A
Compass Is For Hiking...
Web site layout should be geared to the first time visitor. Take nothing for
granted. The links must be absolutely clear and straightforward. A site map or
outline is helpful and a search feature for bigger sites is a must. People will
have a difficult time finding the information they want no matter how clear you
are. Minimize the obstacles in the beginning by keeping things as simple as possible.
Endless
Spring Cleaning...
If you can't reserve the time to regularly follow up on the information and links
within your site, hire somebody that will. Content that is out of date or dead
links will discourage visitors from returning. Web sites are rarely static and
the very dynamic nature of displaying content on the Internet requires constant
maintenance. This is not to say that everything on a site needs to change constantly,
but new content needs to blend in with the old to preserve continuity.
The
Waiting Game...
Even with the widening influence of cable, dsl and wireless connections most
people still access the Web on analog modems. It is vital to keep the download
time to a minimum. Given the dynamic nature of individual patience levels, 10
to 15 seconds for the main page must be the maximum. Most people will wait for
content that they want, they will not wait to discover what content is available.
The
Expected Disclaimer...
Web design is a very competitive business and I certainly don't want to turn
prospective clients away by seeming too restrictive. The tips above are just
guides to keep in mind when making decisions on what to include. I will embrace
and incorporate anything you wish to display. |