Well that time is here again when you can vote for the best (or least bad) websites that self-nominated for the BUGB communications awards.  There are three finalists in each of two categories, one for design and one for content.

The finalists clearly commit a lot of time and energy to maintaining their web presence and all of them seem to be doing some things really well.  Call me old fashioned (Catriona, you're old fashioned) but I prefer the simpler, less whizzy websites that tell me what I need to know.

Things I like...

• Clear listing of service times and a hint on style... I have eclectic tastes and am tolerant of most but it's nice to have an idea what I might find.  Ironically the worst offenders on this are often the smartest sites.
• List of other regular activities in easy access format (no use saying 'Bumble Bees' or 'Grumblers Hour' if no one will have a clue what that means)
• Address, maps, directions ... no real excuse here as links to mapping are easy and how long does it take to add the address and post code?  Phone numbers and other contact details are helpful too.
• Pictures of people who are genuinely part of the church (not stock photos or professionally commissioned stuff) and some clue as to what the place looks like on the outside so I know when I've found it.

Things I don't like...

• Out of date information... 'come to our 2008 nativity service' (I jest not)
• Broken links
• Loads of 'under construction' or 'coming soon' pages - just take them off!
• Too many pages meaning complex navigation to find out what is wanted

Things that are nice but not essential...

• Electronic versions of magazines (PDF is nicest as it doesn't foul up formatting in different software)
• Photo galleries - so long as they are current
• Podcasts and audio of services/sermons
• Links to other 'of interest' sites that give a hint about what this church is like

If a website is a shop window, it needs to be enough to entice people to come inside and find out more... you won't find the supermarkets listing all their products on the door but you will find regular opening times and special offers, maybe there's a clue there?

Anyway, should you wish to vote for the awards the link is here