creating content for your website
content... what is it?
Perhaps an easy way to explain content is to first talk about what it isn't. Content is not the design of your website. It's not the colours, fonts or neat icons (in most cases). Content is what's left after you strip away all the pretty bits. It's the words, photos, video and audio - the information.
Of course, the design of a website can certainly improve our visit, but how many times have you been to a great looking site only to find there was nothing there to sink your teeth into? Did you ever bother to go back?
not everyone sees everything...
There are many web users who will never see the full design, or "style", of your site for a variety of reasons: personal choice (they've told their browser to remove all styling) and visual impairments are two obvious ones.
The image shown here is what the Fine Lime Designs site would look like on a browser where styling has been turned off.
It's important to ensure the content of your site can stand alone if the design is removed.
So what should you think about when creating your content? Read on...
things to think about when creating content
- the words: people read differently from a screen. They tend to scan. Keep your information clear, simple and to the point. Break it up into small chunks that are easier on the eye. Use key words. And if you're not a writer, get somebody who is to do it for you.
- the images: choose images that directly relate to your content - not images that are just for decoration (decorative images should be part of the design, not the content). An image can say a lot but also remember that not all your visitors may be able to see it.
- the audio: audio should also directly relate to your content and should be used very sparingly. If you do have a reason to use audio on your site (perhaps your site is to sell your newly formed swing band's self produced CD!), make sure the user has the option to turn it on and off. Many users find unsolicited sound to be very aggravating so again, be very careful how you choose to use audio.
- the video: well thought out video pieces that, again, relate directly to your site's purpose, can greatly enhance a user's visit. Examples might be a short training video on how to use a product or a clip showing hilights of a vacation destination. Again, ensure it serves a purpose and is not simply to enhance the look of your site.
- the legalities: make sure that you have the legal right to use any content that you put on your site. This doesn't just include the images, videos or sound clips in the content, it also includes any imagery used in your design.
- keeping it fresh: a website should be a living entity that can evolve. If you want to encourage repeat visits, you need to keep your content fresh, up to date and interesting to your target audience. Think about who will update your site and how often it will be done.
Content is one of the most difficult parts of creating a website and getting it right truly is an artform in itself. A good web designer will be able to assist you with pulling together all of your content and show you ways to make it more accessible to everyone.