Tools
Multiple Browsers - No one browser displays website content the same nor does all functionality behave the same in all browsers, if at all.
There will be instances where something won't work in one browser but will in another.
It is essential that pages be viewed in as many browsers as possible to ensure that they display correctly for as many viewers as possible.
While you might not be able to fix all of these problems, you can be aware of them and either avoid using whatever is causing the problem entirely or post a note on your site to viewers.
Multiple Computers - You don't need a second computer of your own, just another one that you can check when your website is having problems such as a friend's or even one at the library.
There may even be instances where website problems will be specific to "a" computer.
File Manager - File managers keep your website organized.
Over time website content will grow as you add images or documents. To organize and stay on top of all website content, you need to have and understand how to use a file manager.
I recommend creating a folder just for your website. In the folder create sub-folders for every page in your website that has uploaded content.
For example, if you have a image on the Home page, create a home page folder and put a copy of that image there. Do this for ever page that has content.
Why? When the time comes to replace it, you can find the original and at least get its dimensions.
But for some images, heavy modifications might be required and must be made using using the original. Placing it here, makes it easier to find.
Image Editor - To modify images before uploading, you will need an image editor. There are many free ones that either come with your computer or are available online either by download or right in the browser.
Account Management Program - Find a program or just create a text file at the start of your website, to track ALL accounts related to your website.
Over time they will grow and you will either forget about them entirely or forget their logins.
Website Manual - This is an absolute necessity whether it is a 3-ring binder or a file.
Manuals are used in the business world to ensure the work is done in a consistent, repeatable manner and that all necessary work gets done on a regular basis. How else to do it but with a manual of some sort.
At the very least it should consist of the following sections.
- account info - a list of all accounts related to the website and their login info
- to do list - self explanatory
- regularly scheduled tasks - list of all tasks to be done, when, how often and by whom
- instructions - step by step instructions for jobs that are done on a regular basis because often these jobs are not done often enough to remember how
Website Testing Tools - Just because you put content on a webpage does not mean others can view, use or even see it.
To ensure that your website is performing, testing is essential. There are many free services available as well as for fee.
Note that you have no access the server where you website lives so have limited control over some behavior. Basic testing tools include the following but there are more.
- checking for broken links
- download speed - too much content on your pages?
- browser compatibility - does the page display or perform in most browsers?
- accessibility - can viewers with disabilities use your site? Note that this one of those issues that you have limited control over.
- readable, understandable content