1. Use a pencil...
The most important thing is to plan your site before you start. Draw the structure of your website. Map out how all the pages will connect. Make sure every page contains links back to the home page. The structure of the site will influence the way that the pages are designed. For example, don’t create a layout that doesn’t leave enough room for all your menu items, or forget to include a space on each page to put the search box (or login box or other key feature you're intending to include on each page of the site).

2. Don’t use new browser windows unless there's a good reason
When users click on a link they expect a new page to replace the current page - in the same window. Only break this rule when there’s a specific reason for doing so. Opening pages in new windows slows down the user’s internet experience and can slow down the computer. It also denies the user that old navigational standby, the back button. If your user wants to open a page in a new window they can choose to by using “open in New Window” from the menu bar.

3. Don’t fix the font size
Specify font size in relative terms (1, 2, 3 etc) not in pixels. This lets users control the size of the font using their browser’s text size setting. This is especially useful for visually impaired users and those who have left their glasses on the train.

4. Be consistent!
Each page in your website should use the same colours, fonts and layout. The important parts of your pages – especially the navigation – should always be in the same location and have the same look. This gives your website a more professional appearance and makes the user’s experience easier.

5. Don’t use the phrase “click here” on links
Your webpage should be designed so that users can recognise links intuitively. Text links can be indicated by colour, underlining or the traditional underlined blue. If an image looks like it links to somewhere useful users will roll their mouse over it. “Click here to…” clutters the page and slows down the user.

6. Make pages printable
Sometimes users want to print webpages. Check that the text is readable when printed. Dark text on a light background is the safest (some browser versions have trouble with light coloured text). The layout and graphics should then look OK printed in black and white.

7. Write for online
Readers tend to skim text on webpages. They rarely take in every word.
To give your webpage “scannability”:

• use bullets
  
• highlight keywords
  
• use sub-headings
  
• keep paragraphs short.

8. Remove clutter
Look at each element on the page and ask yourself “is this really necessary?” Don’t cram too much onto the page. Don’t duplicate links unless you've got good reasons for doing so. Use plenty of “white space” for eye relief. Less is more!

9. Don’t test on animals
Test your website on human beings. Find some who represent your “target audience.” Don’t tell them what to do, just sit and watch them use your website. Make notes about any difficulties they have. Use this information to make final adjustments.

10. Check that it works!
Does your website have “dead links”? Any nasty red crosses where graphics should be? Test the site on different browsers and platforms. Does it look OK on a Macintosh? Do you want it to work in Netscape?

For more top tips check out Simple ideas for website design