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.