Posted by lulu on 5/2/06 7:54pm
Msg #117313

The ideal Notary Signing Agent website?

Some of you have viewed my website. I try to keep adding things as I see people ask questions that they are having trouble finding answers to on the net. I propose this question to Seasoned and Newbie Notary Signing Agents. What do you find lacking in any notary site you have been on? If you were able to find the ideal site what would it consist of? Any input would be greatly appreciated. I am really enjoying developing the website and want it to be something of value to everyone.

Reply by MelissaCT on 5/3/06 9:53am
Msg #117401

Put yourself in the shoes of someone looking for a notary. What important questions would you have, and does your site answer them? One thing to keep in mind is that flashy or trendy isn't the same as functional. Don't put things on your site just because they "look cool". Keep things simple and, if needed, place the same information in more than one place. A search engine may find your site & index a page other than your homepage. Always link each page to your homepage at a minimum. Also, users tend to look for links on the top or left side of a page. Lastly, not everyone is computer savvy. Make it easy to find information. Make your links stand out as links, even if you have to put a 'click here' on the page to direct users where to click.

I find it helpful to look at other sites on the same topic for layout and content ideas. I don't copy someone else's work, but I will include things that others have (like pricing, availability, etc.) on their sites. If it's important enough information for others to place on their sites, it should be important for mine as well. A website should be a dynamic thing, constantly being updated to reflect new services, revised pricing, etc. A static site, that remains unchanged for long periods of time, may become and/or look outdated after a while.

Good luck!

Reply by lulu on 5/3/06 1:23pm
Msg #117472

Thanks for the input Melissa. At this point, I had just created the site so when asked on other sites and with companies for a website address, I had one. As I surf the net, I hear notaries asking if 'anyone knows where to find such-and such' so as I find these things I have added them to my site. I'm mainly trying to create a resource for the notary. Yet who knows how it may evolve down the road, I guess. I just wanted to get some feedback of items people would like to see so when I come across something I could add it.

I did do some restructuring in my sitemap after your post, so once again thanks.