The NAPRP Blog

Oct 23

Written by: NAPRP Admin
10/23/2009 4:01 AM

Assuming the airlines cooperate, by the time you read this I'll be in Las Vegas for the Best Friends No More Homeless Pets Conference. I'll be busily freaking out about my workshop presentation, so hey, wish me luck!

Since I'm writing this post ahead of time, I thought I'd expand a bit on last week's topic. Creating a great Web site for your organization doesn't have to be complicated. Many people are intimidated by the "techie" aspect, but the most important decisions you make about your site don't have anything to do with nerdy matters.

I have created many Web sites (including the one for NAPRP) and co-authored a book called Web Business Success: The Entrepreneur's Guide to Web Sites That Work. So here are a few Web site design tips from the trenches:

1. Keep your design simple. The worst Web site design failures occur when a designer gets too "creative." When in doubt, opt for the classic black text on a white background. The goal of any Web site is to be read. Nothing has more contrast than black on white. You can add other colorful design elements, but start with the basics so everyone can view your site easily. (After all, not all of your prospective donors have 18-year-old eyes!)

2. Use graphics with restraint. Photos should emphasize your message, not overshadow it. Don't bog down your site with irrelevant images. You don't want to distract people. Instead, opt for fewer high-quality meaningful images. Yes, we love all our critters, but try to include only the best photos on your site, so your adoptables can put their best "paws" forward.

3. Usability rules. Like I said, a Web site is designed to be read, so don't make it impossible to navigate. Far too many people end up with unusable Web sites because they took advice from a Web designer who was more interested in enhancing the "coolness factor" of his portfolio than in whether or not anyone could actually use his Web site. Weird navigation is annoying, and people will just click away.

4. Trust your instincts. Like all forms of creative expression, Web design is somewhat subjective. But don't forget that you're a Web citizen too. If you hate looking at and using your own Web site, other people will too.

As always thanks for all you do to help the animals!

~ Susan Daffron
    Founder & President, NAPRP

 

 

Tags: