Web Design

Topics

  • animation
  • branding
  • color
  • flow
  • grid
  • hierarchy
  • iconography
  • illustration
  • interaction
  • mobile
  • palette
  • ratio
  • spacing
  • systems
  • template
  • theme
  • typography
  • ui
  • usability

Find answers to...

  • Why makes something look good?
  • What is "good" design?
  • How do I know when a design is 'too much'?
  • What are dated trends in web design?
  • How is modern design on websites and apps done?
  • Why are animations generally not a great idea for usability and accessibility?

Objectives

  • Define key visual design principles and their impact on website aesthetics. Know the principles of visually appealing and effective layouts.
  • Define "good" web design by its user-friendliness, clarity, effectiveness, and appeal. Understand the multifaceted nature of successful web design beyond just looks.
  • Evaluate when web design elements become excessive and detract from user experience. Avoid overwhelming users and maintain a clear, focused design.
  • Recognize and explain why certain web design trends are now considered dated. Learn what makes designs feel current and professional.
  • Describe the characteristics of modern web design in websites and apps. Understand and implement contemporary design approaches.
  • Apply current modern design principles in web design projects. Know what makes aesthetically pleasing products and aligned with current standards.
  • Explain the negative impacts of excessive animations on website usability and accessibility. Think about animation in terms of user outcomes rather than animations that detract from design goals.
  • Make informed decisions about using animations in web design, prioritizing usability. Enhance, rather than detract from, the user journey with animation.

Things to Consider

  • We typically don't know what makes good design and have no idea whether something a vendor/agency proposes is well designed.
  • Design is more than just looks!
  • Web design can be "too much" and knowing that limit is key to reigning in our impulses
  • We tend to follow trends too much - the goal is to enable the user and look good.
  • Know the trade-offs in design and how they stack up against technical, business, cost considerations.
  • Stop treating UI and web design as all there is to UX.

Courses

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Readings

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© 2024-2025 Zixian Chen. All views expressed here are solely mine.