elements
Conceptual
Creation of a web site starts with a vision and defining the audience for the appropriate communication objectives. Often, an organization views itself from the inside through the eyes of internal staff. The first instinct is to create a site which reflects internal structure. Seldom does this approach meet the needs of the audience.
Visual
Visual design encompasses graphic elements, color combinations, fonts and styles, page layout, and the association of graphical elements with textual content. A successful web site conveys an image consistent with an organization's visual identity and communication goals.
Technological
Technological aspects to consider are web browser capabilities and speed. Recent browsers have introduced features which enhance the ability to create web sites that function and appear better than ever before. However, cross browser compatibility and older versions continue to exist. Is your audience more likely to be high tech or old school?
Navigation
A web site can look attractive and contain a wealth of information, but studies show that if users are unable to easily find what they are looking for, most won't have the patience to stay on your site. Create clear audience-oriented global navigation menus. Expose multiple tiers of information. When a site is large or complex, add secondary menu categories and make them accessible from the global menus. Present navigation consistently. Navigational elements should be consistent on every page.
Content
Content is paramount to a successful web site and one on the most critical components. People seek information when they visit your site and while great design and eye catching elements will get their attention, it can only hold it so long without information. Make sure your information is accessible at all times.
