We have compiled a short list of elements that we believe every website should have. If you are thinking about areas in which you can improve your website these may help to provide you with a few ideas during the design and development phase.
A "What's New" section
Too many websites seem to have sunk into a state of suspended animation. Either nothing's been added since the day they were launched, or you just can't find it. The Web thrives on newness. Whether you add new content to your site daily or annually, make sure visitors know where to find it.
A search facility or site map
Big sites need a search facility that produces meaningful results. Smaller websites should have a site map or table of contents that clearly lays out what content is where. If you choose to make it difficult for users to find what they're looking for, users will choose to look elsewhere.
A feedback mechanism
Despite all the talk about the Internet being the first true two-way medium, not enough websites offer a simple way for customers to make their voices heard. The majority of websites offer a simple "mail to" link, which opens up a blank mail message, usually addressed to the webmaster. Even better is a menu that lets users route their feedback to a specific department (sales, service, marketing, etc.).
Consistent navigation
Navigation needs to tell users where they are within a site, as well as where they can go from there. The navigation should be clear, consistent and easy to understand.
Security information
Until consumers become more comfortable with submitting credit card information over the Web, commerce websites need to include an explanation of their security protocols and proceedures as well as indications of when a transaction is secure.
Linking instructions
Want more traffic? Why not encourage other sites to link to you and provide the HTML code to help them do it?
A Privacy policy & Terms and Conditions
If your site asks visitors to volunteer information about who they are, it has become de rigueur to draft and display a privacy policy. How will you use the information that visitors give you?
If you are selling items or providing information you should also have a document on the website that declares the terms under which those items are sold, or the information is provided.
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