Principles of Web Design (Joel Sklar )- Part 2

Plan for clear presentation of information
-Break text into reasonable segments that make for easier on-screen reading
-Providing contrasting colors that are easy to read and easy on the eye.
-In online reading, users scan more and read less, skimming long pages quickly by scrolling. Include plenty of headings so users can find content quickly.
-Users cannot comprehend more than 7±2 steps or segments of information at one time

Create an unified site design
Choices of colors, fonts, graphics and page layout should communicate a visual theme to users that orients them to site’s content.

Plan smooth transition
-Reinforce the identifying elements of the site and create smooth transitions from one page to another by repeating colors and fonts and by using a page layout that allows different hierarchical levels.
-Placing navigation elements in the same position on each page.
-The overall design of a page at any information level, should reflect the identity of the site.

Use a grid to provide visual structure
Grid is a conceptual layout device that organizes the page into columns and rows. The structure of a web page is imposed by the grid or page template.

Use Active white space
White space is the blank areas of a page. Good use of white space guides the reader and defines the area of page.