Web Writing
I have a passion for web design. This past summer, I worked hard to re-design our district’s website, and while some cosmetic changes were made, the real work was on the backend. We now have a 95% “automated”, database-driven backend which makes it easier to manage. I don’t have to be the only one making content.
With over 215 blogging teachers and administrators, content is always new, but having help with individual school websites is great, too. A lot of work upfront, but then everyone takes ownership because so many are content creators.
Which is why I liked reading about Sean thinking about web design in a recent post. Jakob is an “old friend of mine,” meaning, I own and have read many of his books, since early part of this decade. But one of the best, most useful books I’ve read about web design, came from a book entitled Hot Text by Price and Price.
Web Writing that Works. I am constantly thinking back to this book with each blog post I write, each news story on our district website, and when I’m trying to refine teacher’s blogging skills, this book is at the ready.
It isn’t so much about design as it is good writing. And it details so many things, that yes, still today, are true about writing for the web.
It covers things like where to put links, how to use bold text, and how to break-up stories into smaller chunks. This book is likely inappropriate for the average educator, but would be great for a teacher who covers web design in high school or college.
This is also a title that would be ripe for anyone responsible for online content or maintenance of a web presence. While the book is a bit tailored to those trying to make money off the Web, it’s great advice any way you want to use it.