Designing Web Pages

by Eric, UNT Student

While creating the content for a Web page can be relatively straightforward, design is not quite so simple. If you are tasked with designing a Web site, keep in mind a few helpful tips that can make a difference.

• Use a consistent layout.
• Use an effective, appropriate color scheme.
• Use effective navigation.
• Use headers and footers.
• Use appropriate graphics.

Consistent Layout. Using a consistent layout is what keeps each page of your Web site together. Regardless of the content on the page, all pages should have a similar look. Almost all major Web sites on the Internet abide by this rule and many of them can be used as a reference to get started.

Effective, Appropriate Color Scheme. Take some time to decide which colors you want on your Web site. Two or three complimentary colors are typically all you will want. If you have too few colors, your Web site will appear bland and simple. If you use too many colors, your Web site will be too busy and detract from its content. If you have a logo that will appear frequently on your site, try to find colors that work well with that logo.

Effective Navigation. The navigation bar is a standard in Web site design. It is traditionally on one side of the page, and stays constant on every page. Ideally, your navigation bar should allow the viewer to reach any part of your Web site from anywhere else on the Web site. Your navigation bar should be distinct from the rest of the page. Usually, there will be a visual barrier separating the navigation bar from the rest of the page content.

Headers and Footers. The header should contain the title for each page. This helps the viewer navigate swiftly through your Web site. Additionally, the header should contain your company logo and name. While you can alter your header slightly between pages, it is typically preferred that the layout of the header not change. While a footer is not always necessary, it is a good place to provide useful information that does not take away from the main content of the page. Typically, you will see contact information, such as a mailing address, phone and fax number, and general e-mail addresses.

Appropriate Graphics. While graphics are visually appealing, they tend to be distracting and can slow down the loading time for your site. When posting graphics such as photos, try to use thumbnail pictures that allow the viewer to expand the photo if they so choose. While logos and simple graphics tend not to cause as many problems, try to limit them to only what is necessary. Keep it simple and clean so as not to be distracting.

Keep in mind who you are designing the Web site for and what they are expecting. A Web site that is too complicated or too simple can cause a viewer to look elsewhere. There are many great Web sites on the Internet that use the above practices, and if you stick to some of these simple ideas, designing a Web site is within your grasp.