Content Basics

In this section I will discuss the basic components that I believe all good web sites should have. I will attempt to give you reasons and provide helpful tips for you to follow when implementing each component on your very own site. I have also provided some examples of good and bad uses.

Background

First you should choose a background image or color. In most cases, light colors work best because it is easier to find a complementing color for your text. If you decide to use an image as a background, you should choose an image that tiles properly, with a simple pattern and light in color. Remember that this is the background of your web site. It needs to be non-intrusive.

Text

Your web site should really have some text. Even though a picture is worth a thousand words, you can't get your point across well without some text. If you have just graphics, you will have an art gallery, not a web site. Now, you cannot just write some stuff down. That would be too easy. You have to use a complementing color to your background that is easily readable. The best choice is to have black text on a white background, or a variation of this. This will make the text easily readable and printable. Your text should be relevant and concise. Please do not write a book on your web site. If you feel compelled to write a book, you do not need a web site, you need a publisher.

Graphics

Graphics are an integral part of your web site. Without graphics all you have is a really boring book. And we have already discussed how this is a bad idea. However, too many graphics can also be deadly. Moderation is the key; remember that. You want to use graphics that reflect the thoughts and ideas you are trying to portray with your text. They should also represent your theme and serve to add color and life to your site. Images should be fairly small in file size as well as actual size. The worst thing a web site can have is huge pictures that take millenniums to download. Also, and this is very important, do not overuse animated gifs. We can all appreciate a cute animation, but when you have a site with nothing but animated gifs moving at the speed of light, it looks plain tacky. If you do not believe me, visit my Don't Page and see for your self.

Links

The great thing about the Internet, is that it is huge and thus there are thousands of other sites that have information pertinent to your site. It is good practice to provide your users with other resources for them to explore the topics or services you provide further if they so choose. Be sure to pick links that are relevant and useful.

Navigation

It is crucial that you provide your users with a means to navigate your site. The very least that you can do is put a linkable table of contents in the very first page and a link back to the first page on all other pages. This will give your users a way to jump to any part of your site that interests them.

Updated on: August 11, 2003