Organization & Navigation Critique
There is no known website author for the website http://www.suzannecollinsbooks.com/index.htm. Some of the content within the website is objective and subjective. There are reviews of Mrs. Collins' work by the LA Times, Publishers Weekly, etc. in addition to her biography.
The aim of this website is to showcase the talent of books written by Suzanne Collins. It lists glowing reviews of some of her books as well as showcases the different books with pictures. The website also has a summary of each book that has been published. In addition, the website includes a short biography about her as well as an interview conducted about her book, "The Underland Chronicles".
Pros
- Pictures were used to showcase book publications along with descriptive text about the book.
- A brief description underneath each book was written and gave more context to each book in the event someone could not download pictures.
- The grid system was utilized for this website and it does separate the information into smaller parts, almost modular, making it easier to read for someone checking out the website.
Cons
- There is no navigational bar. Instead, there are quick links in the margin and at the bottom. The only time a navigation bar is apparent is through a mobile or reduced screen size.
- On the homepage, there is a lot of whitespace in between the pictures of the books. Creating floating images with text going around the text is ideal.
- A footer with copyright information as well as link to privacy policy and terms of use should be used.
- There is no option for a newsletter sign up. Most authors want to keep in touch with their readers and apprised of appearances, new books, interviews, or anything else the author has going on including a book sale that is happening on a retailer's website. Create a marketing email using Constant Contact or MailChimp for newsletters.
- Include a list of movies and where to purchase them, whether it is through streaming services or on DVD, would be ideal.
- Books that are about to be released should be front and center of the page. For example, The Ballard of Songbirds and Snakes is due out on May 19, 2020. Many retailers are doing a pre-order of this book. It should contain links to different booksellers and encourage readers to locate a bookstore near them to pre-order it.
The content for the website is easily available, however, it does a disservice to the readers. It is likely that there are people from every demographic that read these books. While the website is set up in a vertical grid system, there needs to be a more natural flow to the website's look and feel.
In conclusion, a redesign would likely benefit your website and readers. Adding in newsletter signups, previews of new content, as well as adding movie credentials would be a significant boost to the website. In addition, adding the copyright symbol to your web page as well as terms of service and privacy policy in the footer. Links to retailers carrying your product would also help readers to purchase your product. Readers depend on the authors not just for new content but also to stay informed. Implementing these suggestions will make it easier for your readers to stay in touch with you and help them to access content faster.
Link:
Suzanne Collins Books