Website planning

WHO AM I TRYING TO REACH?

One of the most interesting things about the World Wide Web is its diversity in information. This same diversity applies to the people who use the Internet. Before you touch a keyboard you must first determine who it is that you are trying to reach.You should have a "typical" viewer in mind when you set out. Whether you are designing for customers or for the curious stranger, try and look at your potential site design from the viewpoint of your visitors. If you are designing for an international audience, take some time to accommodate their needs in your design (given the nature of the Internet, you should expect that not all of your visitors will be from your own country). This may amount to little more than choosing universally recognizable icons for your menu (discussed later in the graphics section). But it may also mean avoiding potentially "offensive" material in your design by looking at it from a different perspective... that of another culture. Keep in mind that what your employees or friends think is good design and content, may not be what is best for your "target audience" (or your business).

WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF MY SITE?

This should really have been your first consideration but is more often than not... the last thought a novice web designer has. Content is what will make or break your web site. In developing a web site (for business, education, or recreation) you should decide what level of involvement or interaction you want to have with your visitors. Are you simply presenting information, are you offering a service or product, or are you trying to build a relationship with potential clients or repeat visitors.

Regardless of your motives, if you want visitors to come back a second or third time, you have to offer them some incentive. If your purpose is to educate, keep your site content fresh and above all, "credible". Make your site a reliable resource. If your motivation is business related, try and look at the site as a customer would.