Web Design for Dummies

After talking about Web design this week, the principles of K.I.S.S. (keep it simple stupid) seem like the best rules to follow to ensure a smooth user experience. Intuitive design can almost guarantee this. If the navigation and site architecture aren’t intuitive, the user becomes confused which unnecessarily makes it more challenging  to understand how the system works and most importantly, how to get from point A to point B. A clear organization, moderate visual clues and easily identifiable links can help users and guide their desired outcome. In following this path, designers are Taking the Guesswork out of Design. But how do we get to the point of showing clients we are using a solid strategy and have the best intentions? Author Daniel Ritzenthaler addresses this very question with exercises that start the discussion and documentation of aspects of design to help clients shed their fear of creativity and encourage them to join the design process.

Clearly, I am not a designer and have no intention to be. But as an IMC professional, I fully recognize that I will be responsible for the outcome of my company’s online presence. The author affirms that, “A solid and common understanding of goals, organization, layout, personality, and fit and finish will create an environment in which you (and the project owner) can rely on rigorously discussed and well documented ideas. Together, you’ll create smaller margins of error, purposeful exploration, fewer broken expectations, and, ultimately, a better design.” By providing an informative way to conceptualize design in application, I now feel more prepared to do so.