Launching a web sight is a big step, a cause for celebration. However, It is, also, only one step; a web sight is an evolving production. Unlike in print, a web sight is never trully finished. That's both the great thing about the World Wide Web and it is also can be the frustrating thing about the World Wide Web.

In a study done by Forrester Research Inc., 8,600 web-using households were interviewed to find out why people return to websites. High-quality content led the poll, closely followed by ease of use, quick download time, and frequent updating. Considering that only regular updating keeps high-quality content fresh and new, this means maintaining a web site is the most effective way to have visitors return. And while people are understanding when they see a brochure with outdated information in it, a web sight that needs updating creates the impression that something is "wrong".

Having only specific sections that require updating, such as the "News and Events" section on the City At Peace home page, is an effective way of handling maintenance.

While maintenance needs do vary, I recommend developing a maintenance plan. A spreadsheet with time on one axis (in hours/days/weeks/months) and the sight sections to be updated on the other is a good way to communicate what gets updated and when. A 12- to 24- month timeline is adequate!

w3sights can assist you with planning and updating your web sight. I can help set up ways for you to do some updating, or w3sights can be contracted to do the updating. We will begin by getting together and determining the types of site changes you envision. I can then make recommendations which may range from a content management system to a web-authoring application to an updating contract with w3sights. w3sights hourly rate for this type of work is very reasonable, starting at $30 an hour for non-profit organizations.

Send w3sights an email to discuss maintaining and updating your web site.