Site Organization

Web Site Design

Site Organization

 

Although there are many style manuals being written on how web documents should be designed, there is really no "correct" style.  Style manuals help to formalize document design, however, it is more important for each author to come up with their own standards.  Continuity and consistency should be the goal of any set of standards.

For those new to creating web documents, there are some basic design considerations which should be held to.

  • Utilize an organizational method and writing style for your site which is familiar to your primary audience.  Use the language and vocabulary of your users.

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  • Prevent users from getting confused by keeping your Home Page concise and to the point.  Include a few primary items on the home page which encourage further exploration of your site.

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  • Each web page should be able to stand on its own.  Try to limit each page to one concept or idea. Organize the page for quick scanning.  Annotate any lists of resources so the user knows what to expect when the link is followed.

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  • While the use of images enhances the visual presentation, balance aesthetics with functionality.  Place an emphasis on providing quality information for your users and limit the use of in-line images as much as possible.

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  • Try not to design documents based on what they look like using a particular browser.  Allow as many users as possible to access your information - regardless of which browser they are using.  Don't rely heavily on emphasizing text with italics, bolds, or capital letters.

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  • A consistent look and feel of the web pages can help to establish a site's identity.  Develop templates which are used when adding new pages onto your site.

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  • Provide an e-mail address for users to contact with any questions or concerns.

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  • Ensure usability by utilizing navigational landmarks within a sites documents.  Use consistent navigational elements, such as a link back to the home page, so users can move smoothly through the site.

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  • Give a lot of thought to the road map of your site and how its different elements are linked. How is this navigational information conveyed to the user?

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  • Give some thought to where you are going to store your files on the web server.  Should graphics go in a folder separate from html files?

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  • After visiting your site, a browser should be able draw a simple diagram showing how the different elements are connected and how you get from one place to another.

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  • People will come to your site looking for a specific piece of information and you need to make things clear for them.

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  • Make it easy for a visitor to navigate your site. A visitor needs to know if they have seen everything they need to see at your site. Make it easy for a visitor to determine what is new and when things were changed.

 

Site Organization

 

 

 

 

 

Originally developed by Sheila Edstrom, John Lyman,and Russ Revzan last revised and modified 3-30-01 by Esther Pullman

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
The contents of the Web Institute Web Site, including the On-Line Curriculum, Web Tank, and Session Notes, are Copyright 1999-2001, Graham School of General Studies, University of Chicago. No one may print, copy, or otherwise reproduce these materials without the express written permission of the Director of the Web Institute for Teachers or the Dean of the Graham School. All rights reserved.