Having great content on our website will not only make us look knowledgeable and help with our reputation but it will also help people who find our website through search engines (they love frequently updated content!).
Writing for the web
Divide it into smaller chunks and use subheadings – it will be easier to take it in
Use a maximum of 25 words per sentence, sentence per paragraph and four to six words per headline
Use bolding, italics, and capitals carefully – do not underline text, it can look like it is hyperlinked and that can be confusing
Headings and sub-headings should contain keywords which are relevant to the article. Also use words which people would type into Google
Use good quality low resolution images which are tagged and captioned – find out more on accessibility
For web addresses use molevalley.gov.uk/ in the text and do not display the full link – use a hyperlink
Do not say ‘click here’ use a text that describes the link, e.g., ‘Find out more about council tax.’
Include links to external sites
Try to avoid using tables – they can be tricky to navigate with a tablet or mobile
Avoid using Roman numerals and unfamiliar symbols – these can confuse readers and are likely to be read incorrectly by screen readers
Contact details
Do not use direct line numbers, always use 01306 885001
List generic email addresses, e.g. info@molevalley.gov.uk and not personal ones
Write addresses in a line, e.g.:
Mole Valley District Council, Pippbrook, Dorking, Surrey, RH4 1SJ
Also
Both internal and external links should open in the same window
Text must be high contrast, ideally black text on white background or white text on a dark background – on the corporate site, links should always appear blue