Web site basics

Web sites have a tree-like structure; the trunk represents the home page from which other pages (branches) can be reached.  A sample preliminary structure for www.yourorganization.org is shown.  Everything is changeable.  Pages can be renamed, added and deleted.  Structure can be changed.

Home
This is the front door to yourorganization.org. From here you can reach selected pages in the structure.  This page gives visitors their first impression of yourorganization.  Large (slow) graphics should be at the bottom if they must be used.  Worship schedule summary and address with directions (or link) should be near the top so that the viewer can see them without scrolling.

About Us
Write a few paragraphs that briefly describe yourorganization's history, philosophy and ambitions.  List other organizations you work with and programs you support.  Include special events you participate in or support.

News
This is where news can be updated as often as desired - not just monthly.  It could be based on a monthly newsletter but is not a replacement.  Your newsletter can be available for download on this page and subscriptions can be offered.  This is a good place for details of weekly events mentioned on the home page.  Events can have separate pages. This makes it easier to remove obsolete material.

Contact Us
This is the place to encourage contact from the public for information about your services or to share information.  Phone, FAX and addresses, mail and physical, can be placed here.  Email contact should be provided with or without actual email addresses appearing on the page.  A privacy policy, or link to it, can be placed here or on any page that invites a response.

Search and Site map
These pages are not practical until your web site grows.

Services
If you offer services, e.g., daycare, food pantry, counseling, courses, tutoring, drug/alcohol programs, recreation, list them here.  Each service can have a separate page.

Calendar
This can be placed on the News page or on a separate page.  It can be for one or many months with separate pop-up windows for each date to show details for that date.

Links
This is a page of links to off-site resources, e.g., synod, schools, and other organizations.  Links are also placed throughout the site, as appropriate.  External links can open a new window or tab so that the visitor can always return to your site.