Critical thinking: Web experts rate the design and effectiveness of seven industry Web sites

Pool & Spa News, May 7, 2004 by AmyJo Brown, Margi Millunzi

Analyze this

When evaluating Web sites, consider the following criteria:

1 Does the Web site give visitors a compelling reason to personally contact the company? Does it encourage them to call or stop by the store?

2 Does the Web site clearly communicate the company's sales mission?

3 Does the Web site help overcome visitors' built-in fear and skepticism?

4 Is the Web site educational?

5 Does the Web site use compelling 'What's in it for me' copy?

6 Is there a strategy for driving traffic to the site?

7 Does the Web site look professional?

8 Is the Web site's navigational system straightforward and free from error?

9 Does the Web site's use of graphics add to the selling process?

10 Is the Web site fast loading?

Source: David Frey, president of SpaPoolSuccess.com in Webster, Texas.