Web sites come in all shapes and sizes. Some are single pages. Others are complex structures joined with links. Each page in a Web site is a file. So, when is one file enough and when do you need to use multiple files?

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Why Use Multiple Files?

Creating a Web site with multiple files requires more work, so why use them? Appearance is one reason. Navigation is another. Printing is yet another reason. You need to weigh the extra development effort against the end result and decide how complex a structure is right for you.

"If your message is complete enough to describe your site's intent, your reader may stay to explore it further."

Appearance

The aesthetics of your Web site are established for your reader when the first words and images appear on the screen. If your message is complete, or at least complete enough to describe your site's intent, your reader may stay to explore it further. If your message is not clear, or if the reader must scroll to find a list of your topics, he or she may exit and explore elsewhere.

One way to establish the purpose and content of your site is with a title and contents page. That way, your reader can see at a glance whether your site is the one he or she is looking for. Sample

"Multiple files can help you manage your reader's access to topics. This is especially important if your document is designed to train."

Navigation

Multiple files can help you control (or at least manage) your reader's access to topics. This is especially important if your document is designed to train. Navigating by linking to separate files is better than linking to bookmarks within the same file because the links take your reader to exactly where he or she wants to go (or where you want him or her to go) without distraction.

No matter where a link takes your reader—to another file or to another location in the same file—you should always provide a way to link back to the point, or at least the file, of origin.

"A file is a document that your reader will print. If you publish a 25 page book as one file, your reader will have to print the entire book."

Printing

If your Web site is relatively short (one to five printed pages), your title and contents information can sit at the top of your site and the rest of the information can reside below it in the same file. If your site is longer than five printed pages or if you want readers to be able to print topics separately, you will want to use multiple files.

This of it this way: a file is a document that your reader will print. On the Web, you can't print part of a file—you have to print all of it. If you publish a 25 page book divided into five chapters as one file, your reader will have to print the entire book. If you publish it as five or six files, he or she will be able to print the individual chapters.

Using Multiple Directories

If you've decided to use multiple files, should you place them in one directory or in multiple directories? That's up to you. Some writers place their documents in one directory and their graphics in another. Others create separate directories for chapters. Still others put all of their files in one directory. It's your preference. Do whatever is easiest for you to maintain.

One caution, however. Because your document's HTML coding includes the complete directory path for links, be sure to establish your directory structure and place your files in their directories BEFORE you insert graphics and BEFORE you link files together.

Quick Reference Guide

When you're surfing the 'Net, pay attention to Web site structure and navigation. Note what you like and what you don't like, and use that as a guide. Also, check out your own publications as a reader. If your site is easy for you to use, it will be easy for your readers as well.