Vol X - Edition IX  (Images on websites)

The subject of what images to place on a website comes up quite often.  And as you would expect, this is entirely up to the owner of the website.  Some people prefer a few select images while some like to have lots of images.  It appears to be "in the eye of the beholder" as to how many images, and what types of images are placed on a website.  We do believe "a picture tells a thousand words," but we also know there seems to be a point where you are considered "overdoing it."

Photographs on my website

We highly encourage placing photographs on your website.  They can be of people, products, or event scenery.  Most people agree that photos tend to dress up a website and make it more aesthetically pleasing to look at.  If your organization is a business which is comprised of a staff, it is customary to place either a picture of the top people in the organization, or the entire staff for a relatively small organization, on the website.  If it is a service that your business provides, it is an especially good idea to put photos of your customer-facing people on your website.  When your customers go to your website and see the pictures of the same people they meet do business, it helps them to get to know and to relate to that person even before meeting them, having seen their "smiling face" on the website beforehand.  Provide us with photos of your staff, products, your building, or even photos of scenery in your area...we'll put them on your website for you.

What about a LOGO?:

A logo is a good idea.  It gives your company an identity...and one people can recognize after seeing it over and over again.  We've all been inundated with logos all of our lives, and can easily pick out a Coca Cola bottle simply by its shape.  Logos, slogans, specific color combinations, and more, tend to promote an identity with your customer base.  We highly encourage the use of a logo on your website.  If you already have a logo, simply provide it to us and we will ensure it is placed on your website.  if you do not yet a logo, we highly encourage you to strongly consider getting one.  Then use it on everything...from your website to your office stationary and business cards, to the signs on the side of your building and vehicles. 

Is clipart appropriate for my website?:

Sure.  And as I am sure you are already aware, there are lots of different types of clipart out there.  There is black and white line art, full color artwork, and even artwork that mimics photo quality.  Some have movement and motion and some do not.  A good rule of thumb regarding clipart that is animated is to keep it down to a dull roar -- it's easy to go overboard with the flashy animated graphics.  Secondly, it is a good idea to do with a theme.  If your business is a dental or medical office, it is a good idea to place photos along those themes on your website.  And it also a good idea to go with a color scheme so the colors complement each other and the overall presentation of the website is pleasing.