Making a list, checking it twice...

So in making a list of the various MA and MFA programs for creative writing and poetry, I've come across some important discoveries regarding website design--namely, that many schools seem to employ designers that possess all the aesthetic sense of a baked potato.

From tracking down the individual emails of department heads to simply negotiating broken Flash elements, clunky college websites remind me to keep things as fresh and functional as possible. This is especially crucial given that online journals can just as easily fall victim to the same challenges.

Here are some suggestions to journal and university websites alike:

1. Don't repeat yourself.

Don't repeat yourself. I am completely serious.

2. Avoid "filler".

If you wouldn't read it, would a prospective student or contributor?

3. Check your links.

I've noticed an overwhelming number of dead links on departmental pages. This. Must. Stop.

4. Post your contact information ON the website.

A lot of sites are using data forms to avoid spam, which is understandable...

HOWEVER, it really limits who can contact you when journals are looking to add you to a contact list.