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Web
design is a complex discipline that involves a wide range of skills. I
notice that some of the most
basic
skills are lacking in many web site designs.
Those basic skills are quite simple, but can be hard to gain because of
a lack of teaching material. That's what WDFS aims to solve!
The way of simplicity
Designing
effective web sites requires having a firm understanding of
design fundamentals, and applying them with an eye for simplicity. The
simple approach doesn't make sites boring or plain! On the contrary,
well-designed sites can be beautiful, and fulfilling and enjoyable to
use. 'Web 2.0ysusus' describes my approach to simple web design.
As well as theory, it's full of
practical
guidance on the really useful stuff:
- How to think like a successful
designer
- What to say on your web site
- How to arrange your content in a
way that makes sense
- How to lay out a web page for
maximum success
- And how to design a useful and
appealing visual layer
Is this about usability or design?
It's about good design!
There's been an political
"design/usability" argument in the web industry for ages, with people
arguing that one is more important than the other. The argument is
based on a concept that design and usability are distinct or opposing
forces.
I don't recognise this distinction.
The purpose of design is to facilitate communication. When
designing
products that have a communication function, usable design is
simply better design, because it makes a product better at its job.
Usability is about enabling better communication. There's no either/or
and there's no choice if you're serious about design.
It's Free!
The site is published under the
shareware principle. That means it's offered free of charge, and if you
find it valuable, you are invited to support this work.I particularly
encourage you to contribute if you use this as part of an educational
or business
training
programme. Your support will help me develop this resource
for everyone.
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