1. What do you think are some of the web technologies used in the chosen website? Cite examples of each technology employed.

1. Web Animation Technologies

Javascript was used in each category of Jobs,Cars, Property, Shops to show a scrolling line of pictures of the product in the Top Picks section (eg. Pictures of the cars being sold were shown in Cars). Research has shown that graphical images and animation attract more visitors.

2. Online Communication Tools

2.1 Direct Marketing (DM)

Online Promotions

A square of graphic at the right side of the page beside the category summaries of Jobs, Cars, Property, Shops depicting a contest: Post Ad and Win! This encourages advertisers to post more ads as there is a lucky draw prize-giving. Also mentioned in the link is “Upgrade to a Silver or Gold package and triple your odds of winning!”

Packages earn more revenue for st701 (as compared to free basic advertisements which are more attractive, generating more traffic and again serving to retain customers).

Registration is also compulsory for all advertisers which serves to build up a longer term relationship as compared to non registered browers.

2.3 News-Groups/ Discussion Forums/ Bulletin Boards

These are easily accessible through the front page in the Just Ask section. The front page also shows a summary of the most recently discussed topics which may prompt more visitors and hence more traffic as topics relate to the advertisements.

2. Do you think the existing use of web technologies is effective?

Yes, I feel that the use of the web technologies on the site as mentioned above is effective. Javascript is used effectively to showcase the products and improve click through rate. Also it is used on the front page and other pages to let visitors view their promotional video which does not take a long time (about 10 seconds) to load.

Animation was not used other than Javascript and I feel it was a good choice as too much animation leads to a very messy page and cluttered which is not professional and worse, a chore to navigate. As it is I feel it was used effectively to enhance and not disrupt the user experience.

Promotions are also another good way to win over customers. “Just post an ad (or more) in ST701 Shops for FREE and stand to win fantastic prizes!” – According to the contest advertisement, posting an ad is free. This is part of st701’s bid to attract more advertisers.

What other technologies can be used to enhance communication effectiveness?

I feel that the discussion board “Just Ask” can be improved. Currently the only sections available for discussion are the four categories of Jobs, Cars, Property, Shops. Also when one accesses the main page of the Just Ask forum, users do not see all the categories and instead the most recent topics. Although this is good on the main page of ST701 as it serves to attract visitors to the Just Ask section, once within the discussion board the various portions of the forum should be listed out so users can click on the relevant section. As it is now, less savvy users may not figure out where to view the posts or topics of interest and end up frustrated as this is not the standard format for modern discussion boards.