The worldwide web seems to be really coming into its own these days. Many of the new sites being promoted are targeting a younger generation, and are doing a very good job of it. Surfing through the in-basket this week, it was interesting to see how some of them use design and content to appeal to young adults. We can all learn something as the new look sites go right to their source for ideas.

n Coca Cola has been in the hi-tech news lately as it enters the world of music online. With a huge audience, and having been on the rock concert sponsorship scene around the globe for years, it wasn't a surprise move. Check out www.mycokemusic.com to see how the company is packing its latest product downloadable music. It has colour, graphics and more than 250,000 tracks by 8,000 plus artists for 99p each. There are many other companies and sites serving up music downloads. Always shop around.

n Since youngsters are savvy about online technology, devising a site to suit their needs is either going to be straightforward or a maze of options. The site http://collections.ic.gc.ca/rideau/ for Street Youth Online is a refreshing look at how to hit the target. Once you're in, you navigate through the site according to your mood - happy, sad, not sure or don't care. It is visual, current and speaks the right language. It is also simple and gets straight to the point. It works.

n A great pan European online magazine for youth www.yomag.net has just celebrated its fifth birthday. The site is comprehensive and front and centre feature articles submitted by its readers. It covers mobility, music, pets, media, food and fashion. Based in Berlin, supported by the European Commission, this is a great informative, interactive Internet site.

n Meeting over the Internet has had some bad press of late. A new online dating service with a twist is available at www.securidate.com. This dating web site bares all. It confirms members' criminal history, STD medical status, character and background, including marital status. The site was launched by someone who was inappropriately investigated after meeting someone through online dating. He cleared his name of the false allegations and resumed the relationship, with plans to marry according to the site introduction. Spurred on by this situation, he started Securidate. It may be the answer to your online dating concerns. Don't let its tranquil turquoise graphics fool you, this site is black and white when it comes to the facts.

n For a look at a recent redesign of a bog-standard site, check out Connexions, the well-established employment service. With youth as one of its main target audiences, it went out on to the streets to find out what its clients wanted from the web site. The redesign is at www.connexionscumbria.co.uk . The site has been made easier to navigate, and now includes sections on personal information such as relationships, health and free-time activities. It certainly is designed to suit youth bright colours, easy to find links and lots of information.

If you are thinking of giving your site a new look, or are targeting youth, it is obvious that involving the end user can make all the difference in the world.