Last Modified: 04/22/99
Design of Web Sites
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Use Graphics When They Help

Graphics, including background colors, background graphics, logos and other graphics files, should be used in a page design and across a site where they can help the user enjoy, understand, and use the site. Since large graphics slow page load time, graphics should be used sparingly.

Example

animated GIF

Red Square Arts Council

The RSAC is a voluntary group that works to preserve the unique ambiance of the UW's Red Square, with its subtle interplay of monolithic concrete, dusty fired brick, stained sandstone, and lush maple trees.

  • Does the wobbling obelisk actually relate to the purpose of the council, or is it just something cute?
  • The page is about Red Square, but does that mean the background has to be red?
  • The blue heading contrasts harshly with the red background - is this necessary for the purpose of the page?

Sites

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Topics

Summary

Succinct Writing

Visible Organization

Helpful Graphics

Simple Structure

Task Oriented

User Tested

Resources

 
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