10 Tips For Site Owners Adding Their Own Content
This is just a set of suggestions for web site owners managing their own content. When a site is built a Developer and or Designer create the structure and functionality, but then hand the keys over to the site owner to maintain. As a site owner it becomes your responsibility to add content and maintain the site. I often see sites go horribly wrong when a client uses a content management system improperly or adds on to a design. Adding content to your site is extremely important, but just make sure you do so properly. Remember the k.i.s.s rule. Keep It Simple, Stupid.
1. Don’t use different colors in your posts. Especially if the colors don’t appear anywhere else in the design of the site. It can be distracting trying to read. If a visitor can’t read the content, they’re going to move on from your site.
2. Don’t go overboard with plugins or widgets. If you find a plugin you feel is appropriate and adds gracefully to your site it would be wise to use it. But too many, the site becomes cluttered or worse may break. Some plugins my interfere with each other or the structure of the site and cause errors.
3. Do make backups of everything. You never know what could happen, so it would be wise to make copies of your database and your site. There are several tutorials on the subject or contact a professional.
4. Do be careful when adding pictures. Make sure they are sized properly, not distorted, and appropriate for the context they’re placed. Make sure the picture for the chocolate chip cookies is next to where you talk about chocolate chip cookies not somewhere else way down the page. Poorly cropped, distorted photos convey the message unprofessional. Most people do not want to send that message.
5. Don’t change type sizes, even if you think you are emphasizing a word. This goes back to it makes your text hard to read. Most people get what you’re trying to say with out blasting it.
6. DO NOT TYPE IN ALL CAPS! most people on the web now should know this is improper netiquette. But I still see it. It seems like you’re yelling when you type in all uppercase, no one wants to be yelled at.
7. Do be sure that if you add links, make sure they work. It’s somewhat frustrating when someone adds a link and then you can’t visit it.
8. Do be consistent. Try to keep the posts or information you add consistent. Visitors should feel a sense of continuity as the travel through your site.
9. Don’t think because it works on that site, it will work on yours. Some sites have some nice features, but don’t assume they’d work for you as well. Trying to add features visitors don’t want could just end up driving away traffic to your site.
10. Don’t clutter. Yes I am sure you have a lot of information to share. But it doesn’t have to all be on the front page. If you are running an e commerce site for example. You shouldn’t try to have all 150 products, your company logo, 2 banner adds, a mission statement, and an article all crammed on the homepage. Organize your information in a manner that visitors can easily search and or navigate through.