OPPapers.com

Techtv.Com Analysis

Introduction
Our analysis of a commercial website will focus on TechTV.com. As stated in the About Us section of the TechTV website, "TechTV is the cable network that showcases the smart, edgy, and unexpected side of technology. By telling stories through the prism of technology, TechTV intrigues viewers with everything from help and information to cutting-edge documentaries to outrageous late-night fun. TechTV viewers are highly interactive and passionate about engaging in the television experience, while TechTV.com logs a monthly average of 1.5 million unique visitors. Owned by Vulcan Inc., TechTV is currently available in nearly 40 million homes in the United States and distributes content to more than 70 countries."


TechTV Logo

Areas Analyzed
The areas that will be examined are:
• Navigation
• User Interface
• Content
• Forms
• Media (Audio/Video)

TechTV Home Page

Navigation connects the user with the content. Graphics, links, and buttons give the user a sense of place and aid in allowing users to quickly and logically navigate to the information they need. The main navigational element on the home page is the interactive Flash content area, which is centered on the page. The more interesting stories of the day are listed here, along with a thumbnail image and brief introductory text, the show name and time to entice you to click it and jump directly to the article. I think this is a nice tough that allows you to quickly decide what interests you and immediately jump in.

Flash Content Area

The second navigational focus of the home page is the category-based choices. The categories are Tech News, Products, Help & How-To, and Entertainment. Under each category are related articles and links to further entice you.


Category-Based Sections

The navigation is continued with the blue column on the left side of the TechTV home page. This column displays the current shows for the day and allows you to quickly jump to...