However, if your site is not especially large, or if there is no budget to hire an indexer, or if you simply wish to learn a new skill, it is possible to teach yourself enough about the basics of indexing to attempt this project. It also outlines a four-step process for creating a Web site index. They also have published a document specifically about Indexing the Web . The Chicago Chapter of the American Society of Indexers has published an Index Evaluation Checklist , which can help you determine whether an index is appropriate and complete. While this document does not specifically address Web indexing, many of its points apply to Web indexes.
Indexing also can be a lucrative line of work.
For writers, editors, producers, or Web developers, indexing can be one more valuable service to market to your clients. The ASI is a good resource for people who seek to become professional indexers. Understanding indexes makes Web developers and publishers consider what their users would want to find, and how those searches could be simplified or aided. Similarly, Web users who understand the value of a good index can encourage Web publishers to add this key usability tool to their sites. It's even possible that, one day, indexes might be considered as indispensable to informational or content-rich Web sites as they are to printed reference books today.