Web Design Information

Web Design is the process of creating website by using Web Languages such as HTML, JavaScript, SSL, PHP, ASP, XML and CSS. This process starts with planning, modeling, conception and finally execution (in the form of one single entity called web pages or commonly called websites).

Web Design involves many characteristics of design and

usually depends on the type of content,

should consistent with the content offered by the website,

should be able to communicate with the readers looking for such content,

should have clear website navigation interface that keeps bringing its readers back for more.

The whole idea of Web Design is to develop a presentation of content and understood by the readers of which should be kept in mind during the design phases in order for the content to be noticeable, readable and understandable.

Important elements in designing a website:

Layout and Content.

Navigation.

The basic layout of the overall website should be kept consistent to make easier for the readers to follow and understand the website.

Some minor differences are allowed as long as it does not distract the attention of the readers. For instance, if all the texts are put to the right and graphics are on the left, then this pattern should be followed through out the whole website.

Having decided the layout of the website, the next process will be the content of the website itself of which should always focus on the readers and think like the readers.

Make sure the content gives answer to what readers are looking for or in another word, how the website can solve their problems.

In addition to the website content are:

Positioning and number of advertisements in the website should be balance between the content of the website.

Blinking, pop-ups and loud sound features should be avoided since it distracts and annoys the readers.

Linking to other website with similar content.

The usage of graphics which should be moderate and not overdo it.

The usage of colors so that readers are able to read the website easily. Make sure the background colors do not conflict the text and graphic colors.

The usage of fonts which should be consistent throughout the whole website.
Some commonly used fonts are Arial, Tahoma, Verdana and Times New Roman. Others are also can be applied as long as it is easy for readers to read which eventually will stay longer browsing the website.

In order for the readers to easily follow and understand the website, effective navigation is essential.

This includes:
A. Website Information Structure such as:

About - information about the company or the page author.

Privacy Policy - information on commitment of the website towards privacy of the readers.

Terms of Service - information on how the services are delivered by using the website.

Products - the products or services provided in the website.

Links - other websites preferred by the author and have similar content.

Provide clear title of the links so that readers know where the links will take them to.

Contact Us - give opportunity for the readers to communicate with the author which could be in the form of feedback, request for further information etc.

B. Website Organization where all those information are organized in such a way so that readers are able to go through the website without any confusion.

For example, the website might have only one directory so that all major pages are linked from the homepage or it can has several directories consist of sub pages. It is all depend on the type of topics presented on the website.

The best way to organize it is to use the storyboards so readers can follow exactly the flow of the website.

C. The Appearance of the navigation should always present on every page of the website.

D. Same basic structure of the navigation throughout the whole website with minor differences allowed only to indicate the location within the hierarchy.

First and foremost before choosing a web design company is to pre-determined or pre-set initial requirements such as:

The purpose of the website itself whether it is build to serve as an online information or it is used as one of the promotional tool for products or services.

The intended target readers of the website.

Allocated budget and deadline for the website.

All these initial requirements must be detailed documented and passed on to the potential candidate as it will determine the layout, content and the navigation structure of the website.
Furthermore, it also can be used as a benchmark to evaluate their proposal of the website.

Having decided the initial requirement mentioned above, the next process is to generate a list of web design companies available in the market.

This process can be done by way of:

Referral.

Searching the web design company of a particular website known to you.
This information is usually included in the website otherwise enquire that particular website regarding this matter through their "contact us" interface.

In doing so, some important factors needed to be considered such as:

Experience.

Not over budget.

Solution oriented.

Quality consistency.

Adhered to deadlines.

Response to suggestions.

The final process is to request a proposal from each of the candidate and evaluate it based on whether they:

imply all the initial requirements.

provide long term maintenance and support.

have schedule for every step of the designing process.

have a good presentation of their proposal itself.
This will determine whether they have the ability to present your website to the "world".

have technical experience for your requirements such as internet marketing, search engine optimization, database development and system integration.