* The following points need to be considered when evaluating a web site or comparing the two web sites:

Users. Who are the expected users of this site? Their characteristics will include: age, experience, goals

Tasks. What will the users be trying to do with the web site? The analysis should look at: tasks, frequency of tasks. With these in mind, you can then examine the following topics related to supporting users performing their tasks:

Navigation. This includes (but is not limited to) elements such as:

• Web site complexity
• Ability to navigate the web site
• Validity and quality of links
• Effectiveness of search engines

Content. This includes (but is not limited to) elements such as:

• Purpose/audience of the web site
• Clarity and depth of content provided
• Indications of the authenticity/trustworthiness of content

Presentation. This includes (but is not limited to) elements such as:

• Quality of metaphors
• Graphic design (effective use of color, layout, etc., with minimum clutter)
• Speed of downloading images
• Two-way communication - ability of the user to communicate with organization
• Quality of any interactive surveys and usability testing

Value. This includes (but is not limited to) elements such as:

• Provides what is needed
• Completeness of the web site
• Currency of the web site