very simple and easy to navigate, yet very professional
July 17, 2010
The Pennsylvania Peer Support Coalition (PPSC), currently a program of the Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers' Association, approached us to build a Web site. PPSC represents a contingent that has been primarily volunteer and is currently evolving into being recognized as a mainstream professional skill and service. A big step toward this professional recognition is that Peer Support is now a Medicaid billable service.
We were tasked to build a Web site that would be:
The Web site went live in July, 2010 and one of the first responses we received was "I love the format…very simple and easy to navigate, yet very professional."
We hit the mark. How did we do it?
Initial meetings with the client are a critical part of the process. With many years of experience, MasseyNet knows that in the end, no one knows the service better than the client, and we listen.
When asked, the client often answers – everyone. We may all like to think that what we have to offer is of value to everyone, but if we try to please everyone, in the end the intention is often watered down and we are not serving our core constituency.
MasseyNet will create two or three personas representing the constituency. For instance, a person who will visit the site knowing what he or she needs; a person who will visit the site to learn about the organization and what they have to offer; and, funders and potential funders.
Often clients want to decide the decorations before the plan for the site has been developed.
To begin, create the architecture, or outline of the site, define how the sections will link or relate to each other and then start filling in the content.
Once you have architecture and content, the design of the site will become apparent and fall into place. The first rule of design – Don't make me think! The look and feel should immediately create an emotional response that lets the visitor know where they are and what to expect.
There are standards and protocol for the construction of a Web site just as there are for the construction of a physical building. Work with a Web site developer who knows the standards and follows them. MasseyNet builds Web sites following Web standards and accessibly guidelines.
If you want your site to look professional and address the needs of your intended audience, hire a professional. Hit the mark.
Are you ready for your Web site to hit the mark?
Contact: Nancy Massey, President
Telephone: 215-545-8541
massey@masseynet.com
www.masseynet.com
MasseyNet.com, Inc.
1500 Locust Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania USA 19102
Voice 215-545-8541