How to develop a site map and content outline

The best-designed Web sites have simple origins: a pen and a piece of paper. Start by jotting down ideas about what you want on your site. This phase of site planning is the creation of a simple outline called a site map. Here are a few pointers to get you started:

• Let's start with a basic web site: Home page, About Us page, Product or Service page(s), Portfolio (examples of work), and a Contact page.
• In planning your Web site, there are two more crucial concepts to consider:
  • Think about content – what will you put on each page?
  • Think about function – what do you want site visitors to do?
  • Keep it simple and customer focused
• Write with the search engines in mind:
  • Use page titles and page names that reflect the content on each page
  • Use your keyword or phrase within the body of content on each page
  • Content on your page is far more relevant to a search engine over a hidden met tag
• Remember to consider how often your content will need to be updated. Plan for the content you will need when the site launches, but think through the next 6 to 12 months.

Click here to see an example of a site map [Word doc].

Don't get bogged down by details. Send your site map along with your RFP. A good consultant will have additional thoughts for rounding out your content.

Maximize the Effectiveness of Your Website a panel discussion jointly presented by iMarc and Eyeland Creations, December 9, 2009.