Part Five: Overall Recommendations (excerpts only, to provide an indication of the depth of this assessment)
Maximize the 'live' page content size by decreasing the burgundy borders to 10%-15% of their current size (the result would be a thin trim around the content and a great deal more space to enlarge fonts, or to add additional images and white-space). Apply this concept to the entire site.
Rewrite the main section pages using a consistent tone and style.
Develop a new home page, inside page template and font-style standards (conventions).
Rethink your strategy as to when a link (or other action) will trigger a new browser; this is not consistent on your site and unless there is good reason to do so, additional browsers popping up just tend to annoy and confuse people.
Your Site Map is an excellent idea, however, it is incomplete. A site map is a user's 'bail-out' option when they can't find what they want with a search engine - or with the main navigation links. On the down-side, site maps tend to follow a similar order and structure to the general navigation links - so their value is questionable.
An Index of Content is an alternative to a site map; it takes a little more work to develop and maintain, but it provides much more value to the user because it is, essentially, a comprehensive alphabetical index of everything on the site - including variations and duplications of names.
Links Page: This can be further developed to demonstrate an elevated sense of respect for the five listed organizations. Consider adding a one-paragraph description of each, including what your association's relationship is to them. This will make you look more professional and thoughtful, and it will enhance the value of your site by making these links 'relevant' to the visitor who might not otherwise know why you have a link to them. Link the organization names, as opposed to showing the URL underneath.
Find a balance, with respect to your organizational philosophy, between professional and 'cool' (or upbeat). People visit your site for a variety of reasons (curiousity, research, registration, schooling, contact info) so strive to make their visit rewarding in terms of value of content, the overall experience and the general image or feeling they get from ACME.
You have an organizational goal to attract young people into a finance career so always strive to present the profession as interesting and rewarding. You can achieve this by using examples of how the profession benefits the greater cause of the people, and by mentioning the types of jobs that people do in finance - and how rewarding the profession is.
Consider sourcing and developing testimonials or case studies of students who have had a positive experience with ACME.
Develop a 'real' living FAQ: frequently asked questions. Most companies develop what they call a FAQ, but they tend to develop questions and answers that the organization thinks are appropriate - when the very purpose of a FAQ is to address questions from customers and visitors that are in fact asked over and over again.
