Design: Web: Organization

Consistency is the key to an effective web site. Users expect to find information in the same place throughout the site. For example, a heading may appear at the top of the page and a row of navigation tools may appear across the bottom. Creating a template will insure this consistency. In other words, design the outline of the page including the placement of separating lines, headings, technical information, and navigation tools. Then, make a copy of this page and fill in the information. Go back and use a copy of the template for each of your pages. Of course you may want to vary some elements to draw interest. For example, you might use a different color of text, background, or logo for each page with a particular topic or category.

Titles

Is a formal title included across the title area of the document? Is this title simple, yet descriptive? Are visually pleasing titles also included at the top of each page to identify the content? Highland Park in Austin Texas has lots of great examples. The title for the Wildflowers of Texas incorporates photographs. A is for Austin uses children's drawings.

Headings and Subheadings

Are headings and subheadings used to highlight sections? Do the headings relate directly to the content? Do the headings motivate and draw interest? Are sizes and colors used to draw attention to particular sections? Are graphics or icons used consistently to help identify sections or areas of the project?

Chunk Information

Rather than using endless paragraphs of information, consider chunking information into small pieces. Separate paragraphs with spaces and use indentation to show levels of importance. Or, use tables to organize major areas.

Footers

Many webmasters place a line at the end of their document and then provide the types of information often found on a title page. Include the author and or webmaster on each page. Include names, addresses, email, and institution. The date of origin and updates should be included and annotated.

Disclaimers

You may wish to include a disclaimer reminding users that you aren't responsible for dated or inaccurate information. In addition, you could include a note about copyright and use of information.

Go to the Internet Acceptable Use Statement from the Baltimore County Public Library for an example.

Credits

It's a good idea to include a page or area for credits and acknowledgments. You'll want to include resources used in the project and give credit for audio, animations, or graphics used. You may also want to thank any sponsors.

Contact Information

Be sure to include contact information somewhere in your web site. It could be a simple email address or you may wish to develop a comments form or a guest book.

As you explore the organization of websites, look for the following elements:

• Titles
  
• Headings
  
• Chunk Info
  
• Footers
  
• Disclaimers
  
• Credits
  
• Contact Info - Sponsor name, Address, Webmaster name, Email, Fax, Phone

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