Content
MSU Web Style Guide
Good Web sites don't happen by accident
Building Web sites that synchronize form, function and brand isn't a simple task. To accomplish all of this takes research, planning and skilled execution. Creating a development plan, before any designs are started and the first line of code is written, is essential in creating effective Web sites; it'll also save time and money.
Ways to avoid costly redesigns:
- Get feedback from project stakeholders and site users
- Know your audience(s)
- Review similar Web sites for ideas/trends
- Plan your information architecture
- Understand the differences in writing for print and writing for the Web
- Use Web standards, especially in accordance with the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C)
- Understand and develop your sites in compliance with Section 508 for persons with disabilities
- Understand the importance of search usability and search engine optimization (SEO)
- Understand how graphic design, layout and branding can increase the value of your site and boost user experience
These are all examples of best practices. Using these techniques can improve user experiences, thereby increasing revenue and the dissemination of information.
As educators and educational support staff, we can’t afford not to use best practices in the development of our Web sites.