How can we make websites more accessible to mission workers around the world?

A few questions to ask might include:

- Can the website be accessed easily by people with poor or slow Internet connections?
Pages need to be small in file size (under 40K if possible) with not too many graphics.

- Can the website be viewed on older computers with older versions of software?
Many folk overseas use computers and software that are several years old, so using the
newest technology on websites may restrict a large proportion of these users.

- Can those who use webpage retrieval services access the website?
For this, it helps that the pages are as simple and clear as possible and there are text
explanations (alt tags) for any pictures.

- Is the language easy enough to understand or easy to translate using an online translation facility?
Most mission websites are in English, but not always that easy for those who don't have
English as their first language.

Do you think there are other criteria that are important for those providing mission
resources and information on the web?

Please add your comments or suggestions.

By RobertHolmes on Wednesday, May 05, 2004 - 10:39 am:

Hi I'd also suggest...

An easy to remember website address

Basic use of HTML omitting extras like Javascript (older browsers can't read)

Running the sites on reliable servers

Using an easy to read font like Verdana or Tahoma size 11 or 12

Running an email newsletter system so critical updates can be notified seperately

Having an 'add to your favourites' button so they can get to the site quickly

Adding code to a 'launch page' to detect the browser type and then automatically forwarding the visitor to the best page for their browser and connection speed..

Hope this helps..

Rob Holmes