Creating Reader-Centered Web pages and Websites

Designing Websites Design with same qualities as other workplace communications ▫Usability and Persuasiveness

Web pages Web page file uses HTML and other markup languages (XML, XHTML) ▫Tells your web browser how to create images on your screen so you can view a page.

Web browsers Web browser performs three functions: ▫Locates the web page file for the page you want to visit ▫Copies the file to your computer’s memory ▫Uses the instructions (markup language and coding) in the file to coonstruct the display you see on your screen.

Guideline 1: Learn about your site’s readers and define its purpose. Define audience Define purpose of site

Guideline 2: Create the map for a site that includes what your readers want and enables them to get it quickly. Users visit sites to retrieve info Maps (flowcharts) show a visual hierarchy of info on your site ▫Users should be able to reach info they want in three clicks or less. Create categories (topics) that users will intuitively think of when searching for needed info.

Guideline 3: Gather the information your readers need. Text ▫Headings, Links, Paragraphs, Intro, etc. Images

Guideline 4: Respect intellectual property and provide valid information. Images – unless labeled “FREE” shouldn’t be used without permission (copyright issues) No copy/paste of text or info without citing or permission Provide accurate info for users – do not intentionally misinform or deceive.

Guideline 5: Design pages that are easy to use and attractive. Signal each page’s organization Limit loading time Make text easy to read (consider web safe colors for browsers, text size, font choices) Present your info in small, visually distinct chunks Order, harmony, proportion

Guideline 6: Provide navigational aids that help your readers move quickly through your site to the information they want. Main menu on every page Link to home page on every page Navigational aids (menus) located in same place on all pages throughout site Clear, intuitive labels for all menu items Underlining for links only Site map

Guideline 7: Unify your site verbally and visually. Be consistent with links, terms, colors, fonts, patterns, page layout, etc. REPETITON

Guideline 8 – Consider readers with disabilities Visual, mobility, hearing ADA guidelines for websites Some websites test accessibility for free

Guideline 9 – Consider international and multicultural readers Website might be translated into other languages

Guideline 10 – Help Readers Find Your Site on the Internet Register your site with internet directories Include keywords in your site’s headings Include a description of your site in your home page’s heading Include your site’s URL on all publications, s, and other communications from your organization

Guideline 11 – Test your Site before you launch it Not all browsers will display your site the same Test on different computers, screens, operating systems, browsers