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Developing
a successful Web site requires thinking strategically about a few key issues.
First, determine the purpose of the site. For example, is it a public relations
tool, an information clearinghouse, or a direct channel for selling products?
Next, determine the target audience for the site. Select a style and tone
of writing based on your purpose and audience. Be sure to use energetic
language to catch your readers' attention.
Previously
printed brochures, newsletters, and other marketing materials are a great
source of information for your site. Be sure to select material that is
still relevant to your readers. A Web site can be ideal for displaying
information typically hard for your customers or members to find. Consider
looking at Web sites of competitors or similar organizations to spark ideas.
One
way to organize your content is to separate items that change infrequently
from items that require frequent updating. For example, group together
a summary of the organization, core products or services, and location
information separately from new product offerings, special offers, press
releases, and upcoming events. Organizing information in this way enables
you to easily update sections needing frequent revision and also helps
readers quickly find the information they desire.
Using
graphics and photos can add vitality to your site. But keep in mind they
require significantly more memory than text, which means they will take
longer to download. When you've finished creating your site, run the Design
Checker to make sure the site downloads quickly and to catch problems with
page design. |
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