The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines entropy as “a process of degradation or running down or a trend to disorder.” It’s the Second Law of Thermodynamics.

It happens all around us. It happens in nature when things decay, rust or corrode. It happens to our cars when they spew smoke and won’t start. It even happens to and in our homes—especially in the kid’s room. And, yes, it even happens to Web sites. You’ll have to figure out how to stop it in your home on your own, but to keep it from happening on your Web site, read on.

This Web site degradation— or “site entropy”—happens when your Web site deteriorates from what it once was—that great-looking, well organized and cohesive site—to a confusing mess of pixels. Just like other forms of entropy, this doesn’t happen overnight. And, most likely, there is not any one person to blame. There are several sites in my own portfolio to which I no longer link, because they have suffered severe entropy.

From time to time I will be posting entries that identify the causes of site entropy and how to avoid it. By the way, if you have any tips for home entropy—please share!