Learn to Draw

One method of developing an effective page layout is to grab some paper and a pencil, and simply draw it all out. You do not have to be an artist to place all of the pieces in a coherent order.

1.      Map - Use graph paper to map out your site in terms of pixel height and width. Know what screen dimensions your site will cater to in order to reach the maximum number of visitors.

2.      Place - Decide what screen space you can allot to page titles, headers, text, graphics, menus, and other elements. By doing this, you can get a better sense of the balance your page has once all the parts are assembled

3.      Connect - Draw out the structure (hierarchy) of your website. Much like an organizational chart, you can draw boxes to represent each page. Connect the boxes only where a menu or navigational icon will connect them on the actual site.

4.      Scrutinize - Once everything is drawn out, examine your structure for dead ends or excessive embedding of pages (a page that is several "back clicks" deep into a primary page or section).

5.      Navigate - Use your drawings to help you decide on a navigational method for your site. These same drawings will also help you develop a site map for overall planning and navigational strategy.