The Web site established by Ida Institute, Naerum, Denmark, idainstitute.com, has earned a Standard of Excellence Award in the nonprofit category in the 2009 WebAward competition, sponsored by the Web Marketing Association.

The annual WebAward competition recognizes outstanding corporate Web sites that are judged against Internet standard and peer sites within their industries, says a statement from the institute.

Idainstitute.com captured top honors in seven criteria, including design, innovation, content, technology, interactivity, copy writing, and ease of use. Awards judges praised the site’s unique and attractive design elements, easy-to-navigate menu, visual cues, and well-written content, says the statement.

Institute Director Lise Lotte Bundesen said in the statement the goal is to continue to make idainsitute.com an accessible and easy-to-use resource and a catalyst for discussion for hearing care professionals and others interested in the human dynamics of hearing loss … we look forward to adding new and exciting features in the coming year.

Idainstitute.com is a multi-media site that includes an extranet featuring forums and networking platforms for its members. The site allows for downloads of video lectures, interviews, articles, presentations, and educational tools. Launched in October 2008, it has hosted more than 10,000 visitors worldwide. Membership to the site is free.

Established in 2007 with a grant from the Oticon Foundation, the Institute is as a nonprofit, independent educational institute that aims to foster a better understanding of the human dynamics of hearing loss from its recognition to its resolution, says the statement.

The Web Marketing Association, Boston, established in 1997, is staffed by volunteers and is made up of Internet marketing, advertising, PR, and design professionals from across the nation.

[Source: Ida Institute]