Use this guideline, along with a scoring table, to critique websites.

Aesthetics:

Does the website look good? Are all words spelled correctly? Is there good contrast between words and background colours? Are there interesting graphics and images or just text? Do images compliment the website's message? Are they quality pictures, or are they distorted? Is there sound? Does the sound compliment the site, or does it become annoying after a while?

Technology:

Are the links clearly marked? Can you navigate the website easily? If you follow a path, do you have to "back out" before trying new paths, or can you return to the main page from any logical return point? Does the site use frames? If so, do they serve a useful function for the site? Does the site use applets (rollovers, java, flash, etc.)? Do they compliment the site, or do they compromise effectiveness? Does the page have pop-up menus that slow down the download, cover the page, and encourage you to go elsewhere?

Does the page download quickly? Are all links and insertions functioning properly?

Message:

Does the website have a message? Is the website effective and convincing in getting the message across? Is the message original (at least in the information provided, if not topic) or does it merely provide information and/or pictures that can be found on other websites? Does the site contain an informational bias? If so (and it probably does), is it hidden or obvious?

Relevance:

Is the site updated often enough to provide a surfer with news, not outdated information? Is the news accurate? Are sources listed for verification?

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