Here are some additional guidelines to keep in mind when optimizing your site for both search engine spiders and search engine users.
Good Web Site Design Guidelines
- Browser Compatibility. Test what your site looks like in a multitude of different browsers. Try Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Opera, Avant, etc.
- Overall Appeal.How does your site appeal to visitors? What could be improved?
- Loads Quickly. Images should be sized so they don't bump up load time, and your site should be as clean as possible: meaning, that if you choose to use multimedia technology, use it sparingly.
- Proofread for errors.A simple spelling error can drive away users. Proofread your site and fix any mistakes.
- Logos or Brand Names. If your site has a logo or brand name, be sure to include this on every page so the user knows exactly where they are at all times.
- Flash. Be careful when using Flash, since it deters search engine spiders and increases loading time. Instead, focus on keyword-rich content rather than bandwidth-hogging multimedia.
- Frames. Most major search engine spiders are unable to read frames. If you must use frames, include important body text within a <no frames> tag.
- Sound. Most users find automatically generated sound on a web site extremely distracting and irritating.
- Pop-ups. Pop-ups are annoying at best. Avoid using them for any reason.
