Frankly no one knows exactly how many total web sites exist, because they're springing up at warp speed. And rightfully so. Many of them are quite good and - needless to say - we've all become dependent on the Internet. But how many of us really know how to create content for a web site?

The sad truth is that a large number of web sites need better content. In general terms, the quality of web site content out there is mediocre. And more importantly, web site content reveals a lot about you, your product and your company...so how can you allow it to be "just" acceptable?

So here's a crash course on how to create content for your web site.

Lots of people who launch their own web sites start by engaging a web developer and a graphic artist to professionally design a web site that promotes their business.

Great! But now what? Without compelling web site content or a professional knowledge of how to create content for a web site, a whole bunch of money was probably just wasted on a beautiful design - which very few will ever see.

Transforming your ideas into persuasive web site content is critical. Just follow these guidelines on how to create content for a web site:

· Content is crucial. Powerful - and targeted - copy is what sells your product or service, not pictures or flashy introductions.

· Most people simply scan web sites. Your web site content should include clever headlines with stimulating text to grab readers' interest...focused, concise copy web site content will keep them there.

· Make your text easy to scan. Highlight keywords within your web site content, using typeface and color variations. Use meaningful, easy-to-scan subheads and bulleted lists. And stick to one idea per paragraph.

· Talk up benefits - not product. Your web site content should describe benefits your potential customer can see, hear or feel if they use your product. Your content must show that you understand their issues and how your product addresses those issues.

· Use testimonials and informational links. Winning web site content should use accounts from happy customers to convince readers that you will deliver a top-notch product. Also supply content readers with links to articles and product reviews, so they have even more compelling reasons to buy from you.

· Search engine optimization is a must. Powerful web content includes keywords people use to search for your site. To get a high ranking, create your web content so it's loaded with keyword phrases and still remains engaging to read.

· Don't let your content get stale. As with most marketing materials, it's easy for your web site content to run its course. Web site content is a work in progress... it must be refined and added to on a regular basis to keep it fresh.