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The original text at this address was not preserved in the Wayback Machine archive. The material below is a guide to website design.
Website design is the discipline of creating interfaces and experiences for the web. It encompasses information architecture, visual design, interaction design and technical implementation.
Information architecture (IA) organises content into a logical structure. The designer must understand the content, the user needs and the business objectives, then create a hierarchy and navigation that serves all three. Clear IA allows visitors to find information intuitively; poor structure frustrates users regardless of visual beauty.
Navigation systems guide users through the site. Primary navigation typically presents main sections. Secondary navigation supports sub-sections. Breadcrumb trails show users where they are within the site hierarchy. A sitemap provides an overview of the site structure. Good navigation is invisible—users should not be aware of it because they can always find what they need.
Page layout must accommodate varied screen sizes and resolutions. The early web used fixed-width designs; modern practice employs flexible layouts that adapt to the viewing device. The layout must prioritise critical content and functionality, ensuring they are accessible on small screens and small windows as well as large displays.
Visual hierarchy guides the eye through the page. Size, colour and contrast make important elements stand out. The designer must ensure the most critical information is most prominent.
Typography on screen differs from print. Typeface rendering on screen varies; smaller type sizes require different proportions than print. Hyperlink styling must be consistent and clearly distinguishable from body text. Reading on screen is tiring; optimal line length, spacing and contrast improve comprehension.
Colour on screen is transmitted light, not reflected light. Bright backgrounds with bright text create glare; sufficient contrast ensures legibility. Colour must be used purposefully: not for decoration, but to organise information or highlight critical elements.
Interaction design defines how users engage with the site. Form design should minimise user effort: grouped fields, clear labels, obvious submit buttons. Progressive disclosure reveals advanced options only when needed. Feedback confirms that actions have been received and are being processed.
Performance affects user experience. Pages that load slowly frustrate users and lose visitors. The designer must understand file size, image optimisation and server response times.
Accessibility ensures the site is usable by people with disabilities. Semantic HTML allows screen readers to understand content structure. Alt text describes images for blind users. Keyboard navigation accommodates users who cannot use a mouse. Sufficient colour contrast assists users with colour blindness.
Browser compatibility means the site should work adequately across different browsers and versions. Complete visual parity across browsers is unrealistic; progressive enhancement accepts this, ensuring the site remains usable in older browsers while offering enhanced experience in newer ones.
Website design serves users: making information accessible, facilitating interaction and creating an experience that supports their goals.