Evaluations of the Internet and Development have tended to focus on the extent to which website content has affected development activities. This research examines the usage of the medium itself, by conducting an applied evaluative study of selected websites disseminating development research findings. The paper describes how the evaluations were undertaken and informs readers of the methods and tools needed to conduct their own studies.

By providing a replicable methodology for assessing website performance this report intends to support people and organisations within International Development who are attempting to evaluate their website(s). In the example evaluations shown, each website is assessed according to six key elements of website production, namely: Architecture, Technology, Style, Content, Strategy and Management. These components are examined using a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods to assess website performance and suitability for an international audience.

The report can be read in three parts. PART I introduces readers to the concept of website evaluations and reviews previous approaches to their evaluation. In PART II a methodology for undertaking website evaluations is outlined, in conjunction with four illustrative case studies. PART III concludes the report by distilling best-practices in website design, as observed during the evaluation of eight websites.

(Author's abstract)