One of the most exciting yet challenging parts of web design is the limitless possibilities for improvement. Everyone wants to succeed in completing their project, but how do you make sure your finalized website is polished and functional and not a dud? Well, here are some tidbits and advice fordesigning successful websites that are published and custom-fit for their audience.
* If possible, get intelligence on your target audience.
• Who are they?
• Talk to them if possible.
* What is their online activity like?
* What web browser might they use?
* For more information on commonly used web browsers, visit:
* URL: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usage_share_of_web_browsers
* When you have a finished draft of the website, and you wish to view it on various web browsers, visit:
* URL:http://browserlab.adobe.com
* Here, you can test the look, feel, graphics and function on the website on the systems your audience uses!
* What do they appreciate in websites?
* How might they find the company/organization’s website on the web?
* Once there, what would they like to find?
* What functions will they use on this website?
* Communication? Researching information? Purchasing goods or services?
• Ask yourself, what messages, graphics and images will resonate and intrigue them?
• Additionally, double-check with your client (or boss) that you are on the same level.
• Bounce ideas off each other, make a schedule, and communicate with one another.
* If your website has a large audience, you can learn more about audience demographics by visiting websites such as:
• Learn the Net: “Online Demographics”
* URL: www.access-egov.info/learn.cfm?id=demo&xid=MN
• Internet News
* URL:www.internetnews.com/stats
• Nielsen: “Nielsen NetRatings”
* URL: www.nielsennetratings.com
• The Counter: “Global Statistics”
* URL: www.thecounter.com/stats
• GVU Center: “Research”
* URL: www.gvu.gatech.edu/research
* Pick and choose what graphics and software works best for completing your project.
• For instance, you can paint on a layer, and then delete it later if you don’t like it.
• Using layers offers much flexibility in graphics programs.
* Consider putting a search engine on to your site.
• Try visiting Search Tools for more information on making this addition. http://www.searchtools.com
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