How Many Web Pages Do You Need?

Many small business owners developing their first web site don’t think they have enough content for 10 or 15 web pages. Imagine their surprise when they discover that their web site, when properly constructed, will have 20, 30 or more pages!

Because they're not found in a website's main navigation, here are some pages that often get overlooked:

• confirmation pages for forms
• site index
• resources page for related services or exchanging links
• custom 404 page-not-found (important with re-designs)
• privacy policy

Avoid the Bottom-less Web Page
Another way the page count gets underestimated is when business owners count “Services” or “Press Releases” as one page when building their site outline. I've rarely seen one page adequately cover a company’s services or products unless its one of those bottom-less web pages requiring users to endlessly scroll down. And with Press Releases, you'll need at least one page for the headlines but remember that each headline links to a separate page containing the release.

A good web designer or consultant can help you uncover other “forgotten” web pages you may need so you can better estimate the size of your site and budget accordingly.

About The Author: Keita Del Valle is the owner of the Inland Empire website design company, Crafty Pixel (www.craftypixel.com). This article may be re-published for free provided this byline, with its active links, remains intact.