Building a Prototype

(Tip: use powerpoint to create a rough version of your website.)

1. The Sitemap.
   Develop a sitemap, which lists all of the main pages and sub-pages that will appear on your site.
   
2. The Storyboard
   Create a rough outline (storyboard) for each page in your sitemap. Gather content that has already been written.
   
3. The Homepage.
   This is one of the most important pages on your site, if not the most important. Apply the principle of clarify heavily here. It is sometimes easier to develop this page last.
   
   Your key message should be the most prominent thing on your homepage. Don't make your visitors think! Important secondary messages should also be clearly communicated.
   
   Content can be used to bolster a key message. For example, if your key message is that you are a progressive, up and coming high-tech company, providing company news and notices of where the company founders will be speaking can help to make your key message feel "real".
   
4. The Content.
   The final step in prototyping is to develop the content (writing, graphics, videos and other interactive elements) for each page. Don't forget to use search engine optimization tactics (covered in the second half of this one day course) when creating the content.

Web checklist: did you ...

1. Set clearly defined objectives?
   
2. Make your site customer-focussed?
   
3. Clearly state who you are on the homepage?
   
4. Make it easy for people to contact and/or order from you?
   
5. Create easy to follow navigation?
   
6. Provide a strong, clear message on each page?
   
7. Check each page for accuracy? (No typos please!)
   
8. Have a plan for keeping the information on your site current?
   
9. Design something to encourage prospects to return to your site?
   
10. Include a strong call-to-action?