To help make it easier to understand the guidelines Internet Consumer Report (ICR) uses when ranking websites, our experts have decided to outline the four major variables. These guidelines detail information on Customer Service, Security, Usability, and Website Design. All categories ranked by ICR, are ranked slightly different and have two additional variables depending on the category in which they are being reviewed.

Customer Service Customer service is the first and main criteria to be checked. In this category, the following items will be taken into consideration. Accessibility to contact information Type of contact information available ( Address, Telephone numbers) Toll free numbers (do they work? how long does it take for someone to answer?) Policies Return policy Payment options Disclaimers Feedback can be given

Usability
For the purpose of the ICR evaluation, usability of a website will be determined based on the ease and comfort of the website users interfaces and the level they fit the users. A usable website allows visitors to locate information and complete activities in an easy and enjoyable way. The list below explains the main items to check in websites, not necessarily in relevant order:

• Accessibility
  Accessibility refers to the website design that is taken into consideration when users with disabilities, or users who have different needs, surf the site. It offers benefits for all users by allowing them to search a site with ease.
  • The use of Alt- Text
  • The ability to increase font size in the site

• Relevancy / Irrelevancy of content
  • Content in the site serves the users
  • Content should be readable, clear and relevant
  • Proper use of language (grammar, spelling and language)
  • Line spacing
  • Include relevant information about the site, for the users. Should be able to serve users internationally, otherwise, this should be stated.

• Advertising on site
  Advertising on websites can be an added service to consumers for some, but annoying for others. There are many pure advertising websites who disguise themselves as professional websites.
  • Is the advertising zone separate?
  • Does the advertising slow the loading of the pages?
  • Is the advertising readable and easy, or is it flashy and annoying?

• Information Overload
  Sites that contain too much information in their home pages, make consumers confused and users that are looking for specific information might get lost.
  • Organization of information by subjects and topics
  • Availability of accessing information by categories
  • Build separate zone to advertising, with strong consideration to static advertising

• Searches in sites
  • Supports spelling mistakes
  • Should be able to find what you are looking for within a site by using the search

Security The security part of this review includes physical security information about the vendor and the website. Use of secure zone for sensitive information Use of SSL Payment processors Physical location of company

Visual Design
The visual design of the website will be based on its appearance and ease. It will impact a users first impression of the site regardless of the content and knowledge provided.

• Use bright background colors on home page to "ease" the load on the eyes
• Simple use of colors on all website pages
• Minimal distractions between content, images and advertising (smooth flow)
• Usage of readable fonts
• Links are visible and work