In starting a web design project I discuss with the client what function the site is to perform and what overall message or impression is to be conveyed. I also need to find out:
- How much information is to be presented on the home page
- How many levels are required
- How many unique pages
From this I can work up an estimate and proposal.
Organizing the information helps determine the layout of the home page and the navigation. I usually make an organization chart with link lines and other notes.
Before I begin designing, I look at similar sites to see what has been done:
- What images and motifs are used (or overused)
- What each site tries to emphasize
- How much information is presented
From this, I can approach my initial designs as to what I can do to make the site stand out as well as what good ideas I might incorporate from my research.
Other things that influence the direction of the design may be:
- new identity
- advertising campaign
I use the same visual organization principles that are used for print.
- Emphasis
- Hierarchy: Dominant, Sub-dominant, Subordinate
- Symmetry or Asymmetry
- Grouping
- Contrast
- Repetition
I also work with figure-ground relationships, typography, and image manipulation to help create a unique look or give the layout variety and and playful quality where appropriate.
Depending on the budget, I try to provide 2-3 unique designs of home pages and second-level pages.
If I'm proposing something that may require advanced programming, I will show it to a programmer beforehand.
From these designs, the client makes comments and requests changes.
After the designs have been approved, layered Photoshop files are provided to the programming team.
Current design project that is to work within WordPress that shows three alternative approaches.
