The Accidental Webmaster

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Summary: This can be for you, as this is NOT for Dummies
Review: Accidental Webmaster is unique at least in two ways. Firstly, it documents the existence of a professional who is probably marginalized in the field of information technology. And secondly, it lays down the path for those who wish to informally improve their skills and manage even a dynamic Website. I would strongly recommend this book to all those who are interested in expanding their Web-based technological initiatives. Some insights in this book are of value even to those who have crossed the accidental stage. Hence, I would recommend this book even for managers and administrators of Web sites.

Rating:
Summary: Useful But...
Review: In this well-crafted, well written book, Ms. Still gives some solid advice on creating and maintaing web pages for organizations. As Ms. Still's title suggests, many come to the role of "web master" inadvertently. This book serves as an excellent guide for both the novice and the experienced user.

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Summary: Many practical applications for new web masters
Review: The price tag of this standard-size paperback is weighty and may limit its acquisition, but anyone serious about becoming webmasters - particularly those who have stumbled upon their position by chance - will find The Accidental Webmaster packed with practical tips and applications for managing different types of sites; from political and nonprofit group sites to informational and family sites. Tips on modulating a web list, marketing and design issues, and web site performance provide many practical applications for new web masters.

Rating:
Summary: A great resource for us accidental webmasters
Review: This is a really useful resource for people who find themselves in the position of having to build and manage a web site. It's particularly useful for people designing and maintaining web sites for non-profit or volunteer organizations, or for those of us who are self-employed and are webmasters by default. I've managed my own web site for 6 years and still found a number of useful tips in this book. Highly recommended for anyone who becomes a webmaster by accident!

Rating:
Summary: Useful But...
Review: This is a useful and helpful book, but if you are an accidental corporate webmaster like me, you can't apply much of the book to your work.

The book assumes knowledge of Dreamweaver or other programs. If I had picked up this book when I first started, I would not have known what to do. The For Dummies series is much more helpful in this regard.

It also assumes you have some freedom to be creative, and some of us do not. Sometimes anything resembling "fun" is not acceptable on a corporate site.

I did find the idea of ego surfing a useful technique, but this book seems more geared toward small businesses and non-profits.