The notion of design is one of infinite possibilities. Codes can be shifted; sources can be revised. All templates can be changed with the press of a button. There is nothing that can’t be done.
There are many things that shouldn’t be done, however.
When crafting a web site, all designers (including you) must understand one thing: simplicity is essential. The complicated effects and add-ons will serve no purpose beyond frustration. Viewers demand information, not distractions. You must therefore refrain from the common mistakes — and spare yourself the horrors of low traffic and bitter comments.
Avoid using:
- Scrolling Text. The movement of words proves clever CSS manipulation. You wish your content to flow and to capture attention. Choosing the scrolling effect, however, will only cause displeasure. Visitors wish to read at their own pace — whether deliberate or quick. Forcing them to stumble through the text at a predetermined rate will only spark disinterest and a lack of comprehension (with information not properly absorbed). Don’t do it.
- Automated Sound. You believe content is to be supported with music and that a site should welcome through sound, offering guests easy songs. This can prove to be problematic, however, when media files slow your page loads and lyrics blast out through speakers that are turned too high (unsuspecting users won’t always have their equipment dialed to the safer limits). It’s an aggravation.
- Flash Graphics. Images aren’t to be stagnant. They should be used instead to draw readers toward specific information. The intentions of Flash graphics are good, however, they are rarely successful. Guests can become annoyed by the sudden bombardments of color and motion. These can cause the site to lag and can also trigger discomfort. Avoid them.
It’s tempting to succumb to the potential of design. It’s less tempting, however, to forge a site that none will appreciate. Understand that moderation is needed and be wise with your decisions.