As a whole, web design needs to be thought of in a much larger capacity. We are no longer targeting a canvas of 800×600 on an LCD monitor. It’s safe to assume that many users will be viewing web material on laptops, notebooks and mobile devices as well. While designing for smaller resolutions is still important, we also have to think about other end of the spectrum; how to make all these instances play together, and how the site is architected.

Space is good

At a glance, when looking at newer web trends, designers have removed constricting containers and opened things up. Items are still organized and gridded visually, all content areas have more room to breathe, fonts have been pumped up in size and calls to action have greater visibility. Everything on the page has a purpose and it’s easily seen through the increase of negative space.

Who are you?

Homepages have also taken a turn with the end user in mind. A few years ago, they were based on curb appeal and how wild you could make a Flash animation “introduce” your website. Not only is Flash becoming extinct but it often results in turning users away as they have to wait for a page to load or take an extra step to find content. Instead, homepages are now presented as an overview of who the company is, what they do and how they can help you. At a glance, you’ll often see all of this in a nicely gridded structure with a feature graphic, supporting copy and possibly secondary call-outs or highlights.

Forget the fold

Another notable difference is the overall page length of today’s site. The term “above the fold” was once a staple for all websites. Now, as we serve up more information-based sites, page lengths have gotten considerably longer. We now pay more attention to having key elements higher on the page, which continue to peak their interest and lead the viewer down the page.

Content management

Finally, sites today are often more about Content Management Systems (CMS). Again, as we continue to stray away from flashy, brochure sites, the need for end-user management becomes crucial. In terms of development, building a site with a CMS can be much more involved but once integrated, updates can easily be made by the user.

In conclusion

With all of these advances in mind, we can make a seamless integration to all online devices. Laptop, notebook and phone users will all benefit from having a more open, easier to read and clutter-free online experience.  For more about designing for mobile, read my article from November: Designing for Mobile Devices.

As long as technology continues to evolve, so will user needs, and the importance to revisit previous web standards and redefine best practices.

I’ve also made a list of the Top 10 Web Design Myths that everyone can benefit from.

In my previous article, Moving Forward: Designing for the Present, I gave an overview of how web design has changed, outlining notable design advances. Below are my top 10 web design myths, which outline some mistakes I commonly come across when surfing the net.

1. White space on a page should be filled with something

Not every piece of real estate on your web page needs to be filled with content. Open space is a great way to separate content and give items more breathing room for an easier read.

2. Having audio automatically play on a page is a good idea

There is nothing worse then going to a site and having audio blare at you through your computer and no way of controlling it. If audio (or video) is a must, make certain controls are visible and they are user-initiated.

3. WRITING IN ALL CAPS IS A GOOD PRACTICE

Many feel that writing in all caps is the equivalent of bolding something. The reality is, when you write in all caps, it means you’re yelling. This can come across as offensive to those on the receiving end.

4. The bolder the colors, the more people will read

While they can make items more noticeable, they can also detract from the main content on your site if not done correctly. The same goes with overly busy photographs or unnecessary design.

5. Anything below the fold is not seen

In the past, browsers were smaller and websites had less to say so it made sense to design with no scrolling. Today, there are greater amounts of content and information architecture is used to keep page content engaging all the way down the page to promote reading.

6. Emoticons are an easy way to say, “We’re friendly”

It’s best to save these for instant messages or texting people you’re more familiar with.

7. Comic Sans is an excellent way to spice up your email

Just keep it simple; default fonts are fine. Your coworkers will thank you as well…

8. Flash animations offer a nice introduction to your site

Flash homepages can be frustrating for the user if they have to wait for an animation to load, play and end before being able to view your content. Some animation can be a nice touch but it should serve a purpose. Flash is also an SEO and mobile device nightmare.

9. If you write it, they will come

There’s certainly value in having relevant content on your site but keep it short and to the point. Using several short paragraphs are better than one long one, and breaking text groups up with images are even better.

10. The bigger the logo, the better

A billboard size logo does not help gain recognition or establish credibility. People usually know your company name before they get to your site and if not, it’s apparent enough when they get there.