I'm going to be starting up as the webmaster for my guild over the summer, taking over from a lady who's been doing it for a little under ten years and is quite happy to be free of the responsibility. About as happy as I am to be taking it on! I've dabbled with personal websites since I was eleven and while I'm no whiz, I'm more than capable of basic coding and some PHP, which is all that's required.

The pre-existing website will be going in the proverbial scrap heap in favor of a complete redesign and restructuring. It's extremely basic right now and, while I'm certainly not looking to complicate things, it's greatly in need of more features and increased functionality.

I recognize that much of my audience isn't particularly interested in the internet and mostly goes on to check calendar dates and the newsletters. They'll be very easy to find. I also know, however, that the website can be a valuable tool to interest and recruit new members.

Through discussions with my Bee-mates, I've come up with a list of features I'm going to explore. I'm just curious what all of you like (or don't like) about your current guild websites! Anything in particular that you LOVE? Anything you just CAN'T STAND?

Thanks!

I particulary really like this guild's website.
I think all the information a member or potential member could want is included, and presented in a really user-friendly format.
http://empirequilters.net/

There's everything to a public Show & Tell to confidential financial information available to members only.

As you said, the levels of computer experience vary greatly within a guild, and you have to make it accessible to everyone.

Here's another really good one:
http://northernstarquilters.com/

I've never had to ask an additional question as it seems whatever I wanted to know was already included.
I really like when that happens. ;-)

And best of luck to you in your new role as webmaster for the guild.

Include ALL information. Like dates/times of meetings and the costs/obligations for joining. Also, keep it updated. Those are just a few things I have noticed about our local guild website that could use some improvement. What I do like? They have photos of their guild quilt show quilts on there and links to their monthly newsletters and the pattern to their favorite pattern they use for charity quilting.
Yea for you to be the webmaster! I am sure you will do a fabulous job!! :)

I appreciate that, in the members only section of our guild site, I can quickly find member photo, address, phone numbers and email address, along with personal favorite color and the guild functions the member is involved in.

Monthly Show and Tell photos are also posted.

Jan in VA

Good luck in all of your endeavors.

I don't like music or lots of cutesy flashing things. ;) Keep in mind that not everyone has the latest browser or a high speed connection, so the cleaner and faster it loads the better.

Good luck!

I agree about music and cutesy flashing things.

One thing I always appreciate is good organization on the main page, so I can quickly look up the information I need -- whether it's directions, quilt show times, membership dues, whatever. I haven't visited in awhile, but I remember being frustrated with our guild's website because there was no index. It was actually faster to Google for the specific information I wanted about the guild!