Some Principles of Good Web Site Design

It may sound ironic...but we've been so busy working, we haven't had a moment to design our own web site. But we're getting there...

We have plenty of experienced, skilled, creative web site designers at our disposal. If you'd like more information, please contact us.

A few tips you may find useful if you're designing or developing your own web site, or overseeing a designer do the work for you:

DON�T use an �Introduction/Enter� page - make you first page count and include relevant information that "sells"
Keep common topics together
Keep it simple with as few layers as possible to have to click through to make a purchase
Use a common navigation system
Use internal links to keep the flow of your web pages consistent and logical
Create a �sitemap� before commencing development

Language � know your target audience
Don't be afraid to include external links to other sites, but perhaps force them to open in a new window
Minimise file sizes (both text and images)
If you must include functions that rely on plug-ins, provide alternative ways of viewing your site
Consider including the date your web site was last updated and keep content fresh
Include methods of contact
Supply the customer with lots of support options and where to get more information
Provide as much information as you can, but keep it relevant�and up-to-date

Use appealing graphic design and colours
Make sure your text can be seen clearly above the background
Keep your text simple and don't use too many different fonts
Use a minimum 12pt font size wherever possible
Try and stick to traditional formatting techniques
Use lots of bullet points rather than blocks of unending paragraphs
Test on an 800x600 resolution monitor
On your home page, put important information �above the fold� so that it can be seen without vertical scrolling
Never design a page that requires horizontal scrolling