Web site Evaluation Criteria

The content of the site, including quality, reliability, accuracy, scope, and depth is kept at high standard, reflecting best practices in the use of a highly sensitive search strategy, timely searches, use of structured abstracts, and the provision of an on-line polling system that will result in continual feedback from consumers;

• The design and esthetics of the site provide incentive to use the site, make the site searchable by neophyte or experienced Internet searcher, makes good use of simple technology so that users with limited computer equipment or poor servers can access the material.
• The authors, sponsors, and developers shows by its affiliation with McMaster University, the Offord Centre for Child Studies, CAIRN, and the other partner agencies and organizations that this site has the highest motives and the greatest credibility,
• Currency of information — searches will be conducted on a weekly basis and the results posted (once per month, twice per month?). The Web site will be updated monthly.
• Authority of source — explicit statements about the affiliation of the Web site to McMaster University, Hamilton Health Sciences Corporation, the Offord Centre for Child Studies, and CAIRN’s partner associations will lend authority to the site, as will the description of the search strategy and source of materials.
• Ease of use — the Web site will be simple and easily navigated, using simple hot buttons, documentation written with ease of use (e.g., bulleting, highlighting, use of hyperlinks)
• Other factors that will be considered are:
• Accessibility and availability — use of meta tags within the Web site that will enhance its positioning on various search engines, so that the site will appear on the first page
• Acquisition of permission to link to other relevant Web sites
• Use of structured abstracts which provide clear attribution and documentation of materials presented.
• The Web site contents will be written for its intended audience, that is, both researchers and consumers, with clarity, concision, and accuracy.
• Contact addresses or feedback mechanism will be provided