A delicate balance between artistic presentation, crisp images, fast loading times, fool proof navigation and applicable information is what makes a website really "sing". These are all inter-dependant and will determine eventual success or failure of the final presentation.

Web development is a dynamic process, as no web site is ever really finished. The very nature of a company's growth and development will require that existing sites always be revised and updated to reflect all additional information that you need existing or potential new clients to be aware of.

Whether it is a new product or a services you're introducing, or the change of a telephone number or an address - the internet is by far the quickest and most economical way to let the world know what's new and current in your business.

I have seen some very well designed flash presentations as well as animated gif's. Well designed, quick loading and a true asset to that particular web site. But.. I have also clicked the "stop" button of my browser on many occasions where I had to wait several minutes for a mere introduction to load.

When a potential client (very often a business person) visits your web site, it is usually to learn more about the products, services or skills you have to offer that he/she might need. Very few have the time or the patience to stare for three minutes or more at a blank monitor to wait for a download, and then wait even longer to view the spectacular unfolding of your logo (or whatever) before they can get into your web site. Most of them will click "stop".. go away, and never return.

The true objective of the designer should be to present your business in the most effective way possible. Word economy is important, yet not at the expense of lack of information. Compressed images are a necessity to reduce download times, yet all images should still be sharp, clear and attractive. Easy navigation is crucial and all pages should be accessable from anywhere within the web site..

My own web site was created to show the multi-faceted nature of my design studio which means that I have to display loads of photos and illustrations. This obviously disqualifies it as a model site for quick loading. The links below are better examples of sites that conform to the commercial standards and requirements mentioned above.