If the success of a Web site is measured by the results it achieves (and most people will agree with that premise), then the quality of a site is determined by how well it works toward those ends. The question then becomes how do we assure that a site will perform as well as we believe it can, and what strategies must we follow to make that happen? Here are our recommendations:

Begin with the end

Start by defining a specific goal or goals for the Web site. Think about what we want our visitors to do once they arrive there. For example, if it's an e-commerce site, our goal might be to create a sale. (Many sales, actually.) If we're offering a service, our goal is to generate leads. By defining our goals, we’ve established our vision for the site, and everything we do from that point on should support that vision.

Goal-test

Once our basic goals have been identified, it’s time to parse, enumerate, itemize and plan. In this way we can make sure our goals statement is properly constructed and that it meets some basic requirements for viability and practicality. Call it a reality check if you will.

• Is the goal measurable and verifiable?
• Are timetables clearly stated?
• Does it relate directly to the mission of the organization or company it represents?
• Is it realistic and attainable, yet still challenging enough to give visitors a unique and memorable Web experience?
• Will the result justify the expense?

Continue on to know the audience >>