Jump to content
Judge: web sites for health
 
2.0 How to design:
 
   

2.1 Practicalities

Straightforward Web sites can be produced by individuals with a reasonable experience of using computers.

Software tools make the job simple. If you want to look at the basics of writing html there are plenty of books and free Web resources that offer guidance. Two simple introductions to writing html are:

Software products that you can buy which enable you to produce Web sites easily include:

You could find a taster session or short course on Web site design at local organisations like the WEA (Workers' Educational Association), further education colleges or universities

However the main 'cost' of a Web site is the time required to set it up and then to maintain it on a regular basis. An out of date Web site is worse than no Web site at all.

Make sure you retain control of your Web site. An enthusiastic group member may offer to produce your site. But what will happen if their enthusiasm dies down or they leave the group or the area?

  • The group should subscribe to the domain name, ISP, and so on, not an individual.

  • Keep details of how to access the server where your Web site is held, particularly any ids and passwords.

  • Keep copies of the html files that make up your Web site.

It might be more effective to hire someone to set up and maintain your site on your behalf.

  • Many small companies offer this service. Search for them on the Internet, or check out other organisations' Web sites to see who maintains them.

  • Make sure you get several quotes and properly written contracts, just as you would with any other product or service.

  • It is possible that you can obtain a grant to help with the costs.

  • Check the terms and conditions of the contract carefully to ensure that you hold the copyright to the site and all its content and design features.

  • Once again, make sure you retain control of the site. If you decide not to renew the contract you must be able to continue with the site and maintain and update it

Another option is to see if your local college or university is looking for suggestions for student projects or organisations offering work placements. Once again make sure you retain control of the site.

< previous page: how to design  |   next page: principles >


  

© Copyright for this site is held by Contact a Family and the Information Society Research and Consultancy Group, School of Computing, Engineering and Information Sciences, Northumbria University. Site published February 2003. Last updated October 2006. Review date October 2007.