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 objectives of the business owner or organization.
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123 Myers Drive, Horseheads, NY 14845 Phone: 607-796-2845 Contact
My Design Philosophy