Short Web Design Guide

On-Target Design Basics, Expert Help, Multimedia/Design Tips...and a few samples.

10 Web Design Basics ... and More
Check out each tip, then click number for more information and samples to rate.
1 Stick with the purpose and audience. 6 Choose easier fonts--with serifs.
2 Pare down words and images. 7 Avoid background distractions.
3 Offer thumbnail and text-only options. 8 Include contact information.
4 Let purpose drive design and use of graphics. 9 Tap dynamic features of the Web.
5 Push content near the top. 10 Test site in major browsers/other computers.
Web Experts and Resources

Guide

Description

Source
Web Wonk Tips Tips on typography, space, images, and more David Siegel , author of Creating Killer Web Sites
Sucky to Savvy Web design Do 's and Don'ts, quickly illustrated Web Author/Designer Jeff Glover
Sun Guide to Web Style Web Cookbook on key ingredients Rick Levine of Sun Microsystems
TPDC Tutorials Page Resources on Web design Tulsa Professional Development Center
Iconbazaar Free icons and small images Randy R. Ralph at Netstrider
Tips for Supporting the Purpose


Multimedia

Graphics, sound, and video could attract visitors to your pages--or drive them away.  The need for media must outweight the disadvantage of download time required for hefty sound and graphics files.  Remember that most users will wait only 10-15 seconds for a page to appear. 

Transparent Image

  
Create a professional look by editing unwanted backdrops from graphics.  Offer user control for extra graphics with links and file size. Video
(10 K)		 =Sound (280K)
Use animation wisely.  It draws attention but may also distract or irritate visitors. 
Visit the alternate version of this page.  Is the ad banner worth the download time?


Design Tools

Anchors/bookmarks for fast access

Video for needed demonstration

Transparent image for smooth look.

Forms for feedback/interactivity

In line image for fast access

Text size as appropriate

Background image for interest

Sound with a purpose

Animation for attention

Tables for organization

 

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Last updated
11/18/04