Is there such a thing as a perfect website? All the research and commentary including our own experience at PLANNING RESULTS points to one answer - keep it clear & simple.

• Clear content
• Simple navigation
• Simple design

As information needs change website need to be reviewed to see if they are meeting the needs of the people you are targeting (see "Is Your Website Current?)

Here are a few tips that might help you enhance your website.

Tip #1 - Content is King

The web is viewed as an information source. People coming to your website are looking for information. Don't disappoint them.

In preparing content for a webpage remember that people tend to scan and read slower from a screen. So layout the information to make sure that it meets these requirements.

Communicate clearly so that users understand you. Users allocate minimal time to initial website visits, so you must quickly convince them that the site's worthwhile.

On average we have found that users spend about two minutes per session on a website where they will view approximately two to three pages. That's not a lot of time to get your message across.

Tip #2 - Use images

As people scan web pages the use of images or photos can enhance the experience and reinforce your message.

Make sure that the images are relevant.

When including product photos, make sure that the photo is not too small, is clear and inviting. And most importantly adequately represents the actual product.

Tip #3 - Use your Webstats

You can find out a lot about your website through the webstats. This information can help refine your website.

For example it can tell you what are the most popular pages viewed. Knowing this information you can then implement strategies to get people to look at other pages in your website.

Tip #4 - Keep the navigation simple

Clear navigation and an information architecture that puts things where users expect to find them. PLANNING RESULTS recommends that three levels are usually enough and simple enough for the user to navigate.

It is worth doing an annual check of your website map to see that it meets the users' requirements. Is the information provided still in a logical sequence?

Tip #5 - Careful with the fancy stuff

New technology is great but make sure that it enhances your website and does not detract from it. 
Particularly in a business to business environment, you do not want you website taking a long time to open. You could potently lose an important client before they even see your website simply because they do not have the patience to wait for the site to open.