Top 10 Things to Consider in Web Content
Be user-specific The CPS.edu user audience first and foremost is parents What do you want users to remember? Break it down into:
Audience + Message = Topics Make sure all content is tagged with a topic that will help your audience find it There are five main types of information. Decide which type yours is and stick with that tone: Persuade, Inform, Validate, Instruct, Entertain You can’t always have all of what you want Trim down to the essentials Remember microcopy Microcopy is the small 3-10 words that may serve as a teaser to longer text, as the content on a link or button. It is different than an article title and different than a opening sentence. When creating content, identify if any microcopy is needed and write accordingly Remember where content will be on the page Most readers will only see what’s up top. Don’t save your most important information for the bottom. Start with your primary message Target reading level for web content is 5th grade CPS has different platforms for different purposes
Break up longer content Use images or pop-out quotes. But, as a rule, content on the web these days should be short and sweet |
*Several key points based on information from the book: Content Strategy for the Web by Kristina Halvorson and Melissa Rach*
Write relevant contentOur parents come to cps.edu because it is the trusted source for information about CPS, its programs, policies and procedures. That should be the focus of all content:“How can I help the parents and students better understand how my program/department can help prepare them for success in college, career and life?”
Format
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Put conclusions at the beginning
Always, always, always proofreadProofread your work. Typos and spelling errors will send people away from your pages. Make sure you proofread everythingyou before you put it into the Service Anywhere. Published errors and content mis-information are your responsibility.
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