Last week someone asked me about how to plan or design a web site. Here are some of the resources that I think are helpful to think about the layout and look of your site – whether you are hoping to create your own web site or talk to someone about creating one for you.

Open Source Web Design: http://www.oswd.org  – this is a great list of free web site templates. Use it to find a model that you like. Then you just need to download it and make modifications to make the site yours. Or use it to find what you like and show your web developer. Then can download it and make the changes for you.

Don’t trust your opinion? Check out Web Sites that Suck http://www.webpagesthatsuck.com. It a fun place to learn what not to do – by example. While some of it is subjective, it does hit upon what are considered standards of good site deign tactics.

What to make sure that your site is easy to use? Jakob Nielsen is another I like (http://www.useit.com) – admittedly he might sacrifices usability for aesthetically appealing but his rules for design will make site easier to use and often will help with your search engine ranking.

If you’re in the Twin Cities, I have to tell you about a fun event this weekend – The Irish Fair (http://www.irishfair.com). My husband is running the Summer School that is happening on Thursday – it should be fun and there’s always room for more if you’re looking for something to do.