Designers typically create sitemaps to either function as an outline or index of an entire web site. All sitemaps should be structured similar to the actual web site structure. You should begin with your home page and build out from there with all of the pages linking to it. Be sure to link all of the major subsections plus your About Us page and privacy policy page from the home page.
Each subsequent page should be placed and categorized under that subsection in your sitemap as well. It is suggested to name the sitemap either sitemap.html or sitemap.php. These two names help the search engines recognize that the file is indeed a sitemap.
Automatic sitemap generates are available. A popular generator is XML-Sitemaps.com. It helps automate the process of producing a sitemap. It is free and easy-to-use. XML Sitemaps generates an HTML sitemap that you can place on your web site.
Benefits of having a Sitemap
* Easier navigation for site visitors
* Potential advertising value
* Encourage greater traffic to your site
* No page would be left unturned
A sitemap gives visitors a place to find what they are looking for without getting lost in the navigation on the web site. No matter how organized and well designed your site is, some visitors may find it hard finding exactly what they are looking for.
As your web site grows and you add new pages, be sure to add those pages to your sitemap. Search engines normally reward web sites with new and up-to-date content.
Additional information can be found in Search Engine Optimization by Kristopher B. Jones.
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