Internet: Technologies and Techniques

Duration: One Day

Objectives

An introduction to the strategic concepts of the Internet. Particularly useful for people who will either be expected to build their own web site, or manage the building project and/or web team.

Pre-requisites

To get the most out of this course, delegates should be reasonably familiar with browsing the Internet although this is not essential.

Course Content

Overview of the Web
What is the Internet, and how is it different to the Web?
Workable definitions of terms: www, http, html, css, asp, smtp, ftp etc.

How is an Intranet different from the Internet?

Web Sites
A look at real sites to decide what adds value and what is a waste of resources.
Comparing static and dynamic content: in what ways are the newer sites better than traditional ones?
Useful web resources to find out more: sites for discussion, information, hints and tips and other information

Compatibility, Design and Layout Issues
Understanding the problems when publishing for public consumption: different computers, different browsers, and different user expectations
Current and up-coming standards with web browsers
What can go wrong with the look of a site, and how to work around problems
Comparing web publishing to traditional printed publishing
The limitations of web publishing
Special considerations for pictures on the internet: compression and speed
Understanding plug-ins: do you need them?

Databases
Making data available over the Internet.
Pitfalls and dangers when publishing live data
The current state of the web database market: comparing the different approaches and software
Security and confidentiality issues

The Available Software
Comparing Web page creation software: FrontPage, Dreamweaver, Homesite and the rest
Overview of other important software: image editors, animators and tools

Options for Publishing on the Web
How to get a web site, and the different levels of service available from Internet Service Providers
Registering a unique domain name for your web site
How your web site becomes public: publishing to a web server
Getting your site known: advertising, search engines and popularity

Technical Requirements
What sort of team is required to build and maintain a web presence?
Comparing the options: in-house or contracted out?
Overview of the computer hardware and connectivity issues

The Human Factor
Maintaining a friendly face
Enabling feedback and interaction
Strategies for handling responses from customers
Making good use of email

Recommended Reading:
The Complete Reference: Web Design published by Osborne, available from IPS at £25.99 (plus £2.95 post & packing). Discounts available for book orders of over £100.