www.TrojanHorseAntiques.com

trojanhorseantiques · #1 (**permalink**) 01-03-2004, 12:04 AM

My website has been a work in progress for about five years. Given the fact that I knew absolutely nothing about web design, HTML, or online retailing when I started, I think my current version is decent. But... I'm feeling a bit stuck, and could use some professional advice and personal opinions on how to improve the look and function of my online shop.

I am throwing caution to the wind, and asking for constructive criticism from anyone willing to share their ideas. Please keep in mind that I am 1) working in FrontPage 2002, 2) only understand basic HTML coding, and 3) I am entirely self-taught. When giving ideas, I'd appreciate if you could keep them fairly simple. For example, I know nothing about style sheets, java, frames and other "advanced" topics. Basically, I'm looking for input on colors, navigation structure, ease of use, etc. I wear all the hats in this family business, and I have little time for redesigning, so I'd love to hear some suggestions for an easy "spring cleaning". Thanks and Happy New Year!

<Mod edit to comply with Site Review Rule #1 - Syren>

vwebworld · #2 (**permalink**) 01-03-2004, 01:35 AM

Well, you have a lot of content there. Which is
a hard thing to manage and "display" effectively.

First - trying not to be too technical - I looked
at your HTML code and see that you have duplicate

Quote:

fptype="dynamicanimation"

scripts. One right after your <head> and the second
after your "<title>".

Second, you should have all your meta tags before
and scripts.

Ok, now on to the website itself. As you know, you
have so so much content. One thing to remember, you
do not have to fit it all on one page :-)

Navigation:
Your site navigation may be a little confusing for
some viewers. You have some menu items at the top
(home, site info, for sale...etc) AND you have more
menu items under that (new listing, antiques, art...).

I think it would be better to have one consistant
menu. Now I know that's going to take some rethinking
on how to organize your menu, but in the long run
it will help viewers... and thus you.

Also, if you are going to have long pages, you should have a menu at the bottom of the page so viewers
don't have to go all the way back to the top to
select another page to go to.

Homepage:
I think you have things you do not need on your home page.
Think about what your business is, and what is the most
important thing you want the viewer to see. That's what
should be on your home page. Is "guide dogs of America"
critical - to have on the home page?

You display "new and interesting items..." - photos
of items. Which would be good if there was a link
from the picture to the item. Also, alt text should
be assigned for all pics (you do that on other pages). Actually, I would think about eliminating
all those pics.. maybe have one or two to create
some viewer interest. But, it's almost impossible
to display all items that may peak someone's interest.

Tables:
I'd eliminate all the borders around the tables and
photos. It really it not necessary.

Photos:
Instead of a "beveled" edge for the photos, I'd use
just a flat image with no border. The beveled edge
detracts from and distorts the photo.

Colors/font:
The brown font color is ok... not hard on the eyes.
Not my favorite though.

And I would stick with ariel font for the whole site.
I noticed on your "FAQ" page you have time new roman font.

Ok, that's it for now. A big site.. think about reorganizing
the content.

~Roland

trojanhorseantiques · #3 (**permalink**) 01-03-2004, 01:46 AM

Thank you, Roland, for your very thoughtful and careful review. I'm printing out your message so I can put these items (among others) on my to-do list. I really appreciate your response!