Map, Flow and Page Layout
A content plan
and map is a sketch of what you want to say, on what pages and how
visitors will move between the pages. A Site
Map will help you organize you message and set up logical
navigation. Before this step you should have spent time developing
your message. (See our content
tips page for this step)
Take your
content notes and break it into pages that are not too big,
both in size (KB) and length (scrolling needed). If the file is too
large it will load slowly, if it is too long visitors may miss the
text at the bottom. Each page should have a single
message or theme.
After you
decide on the content and pages you need to decide how visitors will
move from page to page. It is good to have a persistent menu bar
somewhere that links back to your home and main subject pages like
the one on the bottom of this page.
Page Layout Tips:
-
Each page word count should be between 500 - 800 words and the size
under 75KB.
-
Have a consistently located site navigation bar on all pages,
including a home page link.
-
Make sure your eye can easily locate the prime content and can easily
follow the message down the page. Be careful not to chop up the flow
with ads, banners or other distractions and avoid pop-ups.
-
Divide the message up with bulleted or numbered lists, mini headings
and sections, etc. Visitors decide in a few seconds if they will read
your page or click off the page. Bold important points.
-
Before putting the page online, read it out loud. Make sure it reads
smoothly, and that it focuses on the customer rather than on your
company. Web site copy needs to be written for the customer, focusing
on the needs of the customer and the way that your product or service
can fulfill those needs.
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Page
Layout Resources |
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