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Web Site Design My Design Philosophy

Rules for Good Web Site Design

Have you ever considered what "wows" you when you see a web site for the first time? What do you feel are characteristics of good web page designs? The following are some beliefs that I have come to hold over the past several years in my web design experience – what I consider to be rules for good web site design.

Overall Design:  I believe that good web page designs are simple and clean, not cluttered, and presented in such a way that the content is allowed to “breathe.” A site user should feel at ease when visiting the site, not overwhelmed and confused.

Navigation & Usability:  One of the foundational rules for good web site design concerns the site's navigational system and organization of content. I believe the navigation system should be simple and straightforward, well-organized and easy to use. Each page of the site should look as though it belongs to the site, and the navigation system should be consistent from page to page. A site user should feel comfortable and confident in being able to navigate around the site, finding information quickly and easily – in three clicks or less.

Colors & Graphics:  I believe good web page designs are limited to two or three main colors that are carefully chosen. Also, the graphic images should be thoughtfully selected and in limited number, and background images and colors should support the site layout and design and not be distracting. Lastly, special effects such as animation and 3-dimensional graphics should be used in moderation.

Special Features:  Some web site designers and programmers have the tendency to add all the latest features and functions to a web site – more seems better. However, overdoing it in this way leads to a web site design that is cluttered, slow-loading and hard for the site user to make sense of. Simplicity is key for good web page designs. The decision to use special features should be based upon the fact that the features support the message and purpose of the web site, not distract or take away from it. Page load time and how those features effect search engine rankings should be considered as well.

An Effective Tool:  A successful web site is an effective marketing and communication tool that achieves its purpose – whether it be to inform about a company and its services, to sell products and generate new business, or to share information about a worthy cause. I believe that by adhering to these rules for good web site design, it is possible to create a design that supports the web site objectives of the business owner or organization.