Who created this content?

If you create your own content, this is not an issue. If you are obtaining content from the Internet, even from this site, you should be wary. Make sure your security software scans all files you download. The last thing you want to do is propogate a virus. If you are collecting text from the Internet, make sure you verify its validity.

Who owns this content?

The Internet will not survive if we cannot respect each other online as we do offline. If someone else owns your content, you must obtain permission to use it. If you contract with a designer or content provider, make your agreement clear. You should know whether you are buying the content or the rights to use the content.

Do I have permission to use this content?

Keep records of any permissions you obtain for your content. If you don't have permission, don't use it. It's always a good idea to give attribution to your sources, especially for items given freely.

Provide information
      This is the most common use of the web. If this is your purpose, your greatest challenge will be to figure out how to display your information most effectively. Use the same basic rules you would use for a brochure or manual, but keep in mind the power that links and dynamic interaction can add to your presentation.

Collect information
      This process goes one step beyond simply providing information. The easiest way to collect information is with email. Forms provide a way of collecting complex viewer information that can be processed by server scripts. Reckless use of personal information has made viewers wary. If you want your viewers to use this method of sending you information, make it friendly and secure.

Advertise your product
      This is similar to providing information. The difference is that viewers are often searching for information, but not for advertising. Find another purpose for your site, e.g. providing useful information, then put your advertising there also.

Sell your product
      Web commerce is in a state of rapid growth, and methods for selling on the web are being rapidly developed. Service providers have a variety of solutions that may be helpful. Most of your effort will be put into what goes on behind your pages. If you want to sell, advertise your site, provide accurate and complete information on your product, and make your transactions friendly and secure.

Just be
      Why not! The web is the most accessible art gallery in the world! Be creative and find new ways of expressing yourself in this marvelous, challenging medium.

What browsers are they using?
      If you are writing for an audience using exclusively one browser, you may want to take advantage of some HTML features available only in that browser. If you are writing for a general audience, be sure to test your pages in the most popular browsers if possible. You may be surprised at the difference you see from one browser to another. To reach the widest possible audience, be sure to provide alternate viewing paths.

What platforms are they using?
      Variations in operating systems and internet connections can affect page viewing. One computer may load a site in a moment, while another may take unbearably long. If you are developing on a newer, faster computer, don't forget those folks with older machines. If they have to wait too long, they may choose to forget you before they've seen your page. In particular, it is helpful to format your graphics for greatest efficiency.

What size screen do they have?
      Screens that view web pages vary from small, hand-held screens to mega, wall-sized screens. Most pages will be viewed on typical desktop-sized screens. Even these vary in size and shape. A page that looks perfect on one size screen may be misaligned, or look confusing on another. Some page layouts work well resized, others don't. Keep in mind the variety of screen sizes as you design your pages.

Will they come back again?
      If you expect repeat traffic, have options for both first time and repeat viewers on your home page. Once viewers know what they're looking for, they'll want to get there quickly.

5a:	Who is your target audience?
	Put yourself in the place of your viewers. What are they looking for? Will they find it on your site? Design your site to answer this question quickly.
5b:	What is your most important message?
	What is the first thing your new visitors should know when they come to your site? If you are a typical viewer, you know how important this is. If your viewers can't tell quickly what your site is about, they will likely move on.
5c:	What constitutes your site identity?
	Your viewers will want to know who you are. Things that typically make up a site identity are your name or company name, an icon or logo, a copyright notice, a color scheme, and background or accessory images. Where do you see these on your envisioned page?
5d:	How will you get around your site?
	You are already familiar with the navigational schemes used on the Internet. How will your navigational buttons look? Where will they be on the page? Will your viewers find what they want easily?

When you can envision your site, write down as much of your design as you can. This will be especially important if you will be working with a designer. Try to answer as many questions as you can. If you plan to implement your own site, and already know some HTML, try out some basic page layouts. Design is a recursive process. You will probably need to see several versions before your are satisfied with the result.