Section 9.1. Site Design Principles

9.1. Site Design Principles

Here are some design and information architecture guidelines you should apply to your site to optimize it for search engines:

9.1.1. Use text wherever possible

For most sites, the fancy graphics do not matter. If you are looking for search engine placement, it is the words that count. Always use text instead of or in addition to images to display important names, content, and links.

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Tip: Do make sure you provide accurate alt attribute text for any images that are on your pages.

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9.1.2. Navigability

Pages within your site should be structured with a clear hierarchy. Several alternative site navigation mechanisms should be supplied, including at least one that is text-only. The major parts of your site should be easy to access using a site map. If your site map has more than about 100 links, you should divide the site map into separate pages.

9.1.3. Provide static text links

Every page in your site should be accessible using a static text link.