A visitor''s decision to patronize your site may depend on the first impression they get. If the front page is totally crowded, leaving a visitor with too many choices, they may flee toward another site with more white space and clearer paths. The purpose of your front page is to entice not overwhelm. The impulse to put all your content on the front page is a big mistake. You don''t want to assault the senses of your guests as soon as they arrive. If your proclivity is to continuously add new content to the front page, consider discarding or moving some old files to other pages or archives. If you are a "digital pack rat" who can''t stand parting with one byte, at least make an effort to be organized.
A good site will continually develop and evolve to reflect the needs of customers. A "What''s New" page is an ideal method for showcasing certain features or products without taking up valuable front page space. Sections that are updated daily such as news or helpful hints, (see: "Fresh Squeezed Content") should have a link on the first page.
Some other sections you may want to consider for inclusion on your site:
- An "About" section with all the contact information for the web store
- A Productivity section for calendars or reminder services
- A "ToyBox" for games, puzzles and fun features
- An area with a collection of related or helpful links
- Frequently Asked Questions (see: "Just the FAQs")
- Testimonial pages (see: "Let Your Customers Do the Selling for You")
- A site map
- Subscribe information for newletters and bulletin boards
Use as many pages as you need to keep your site organized, clutter-free and easily navigational. Maintain consistency with colors, fonts and layout throughout all pages. Use white space to give the appearance of a clean, orderly space.
Your web site''s front page is valuable Internet real estate. Only the very best of your content should be displayed there.
More information on creating an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly site:
Site Design: A Lesson in Value
The Subtle Art of Simplicity!
Web Design for Success!
What''s Your Navigation Quotient?
IE 7
Firefox 2.0
