When designing web sites aimed at an African audience you must remember the bandwidth issue. It does not matter how cool you think you latest Flash creation is. If your visitors lack broadband connections they will probably never get a chance to view it.

Here is a short list of things to consider early in the developing process of your future web site. These suggestions are in no way the only ones you need to learn about. However, it is a good start and everyone should be able to grasp it.

Separate code and content
If you build static websites you’ll have to live with having a large amount of code and content on the same page. But if you work with dynamic content it is easier to separate them both. Use CSS to style your website, set borders, margins, fonts and so forth. The CSS file is also the place where you set the foundation for your overall layout using div tags, class tags, id tags – Tags that you then include on the main page.

Keep websites small
Less is more and you should always look for the fastest (meaning; smallest) solution when developing websites. No matter if you work with static or dynamic websites, try to minimize the amount of effects, images and (for experienced developers) HTTP requests.

Use easy navigation
Refrain from using Flash or unnecessary JavaScript in your navigational menus. Plain text is easy to navigate through for both visitors and search engines.

Content is king
Your users look for information on various topics, give it to them. If you are a photographer it makes sense to include several bandwidth consuming features on your website like images. But text providers should keep it small but yet informative enough for your visitors to stick around.

Limit the use of images
Unless you are into photography and similar enterprises, please do not use an excessive amount of images on your website. If you want to add color, borders or rounded corners – use Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) instead.

Learn more
Visit www.aptivate.org/webguidelines/