Week 12 Page 5: Simplicity

Aim for Simplicity!

The Importance of Simplicity in Design

simplicity slide

 

Simplicity is an important aspect of successful design... so seemingly easy, yet so difficult to achieve. A simple, uncluttered layout allows the content to come shining through. The ultimate goal of web design is to communicate the content to the viewer and simple designs are the best way to achieve this.

So when in doubt... CUT, CUT, CUT! Remove anything extraneous that doesn't directly contribute to the content or help the viewer interpret meaning. Delete the cute graphic! Cut the annoying animated gif! The end result of this will be a clean, professional design.

Simplicity Examples

Let's look at two screen shots of web pages. This time we'll start with a "bad" example!!

The example below demonstrates a frightening excess of distraction! There are so many images, boxes, type sizes (not to mention animation) that it's hard for a user to understand the content quickly. Most site visitors will take one look ant leave this site (unless they're really anxious to buy Barbies that is!). To enable you to fully appreciate this site, I'm including the URL (enjoy!!): http://www.nancysdreamhouse.com/ Links to an external site. 

bad simplicity screen shot


The next example presents the content in a clean and simple way. The simplicity of the layout and colors makes it easier for site visitors to appreciate the photos and the quality of what the site is trying to showcase.  Here's a link to the site in case you're interested: http://www.freddevos.com/ Links to an external site.

good simplicity screen shot

And lastly...

Simple or Not?!!

Look at the following sites and decide: Simple or Not?

• Shady Acres: http://shadyacres.com.au/ Links to an external site.

• Liquid Blues Band: http://www.liquid-blue.com/ Links to an external site.

• Ashford and Ashford: http://www.ashford-ashford.com/ Links to an external site.

• Checkland Kindleysides: http://checklandkindleysides.com/ Links to an external site.

You can post your comments to our class Weekly Class Discussion, Discoveries and Questions Forum if you want to discuss these sites with other students.

 

This ends the lecture on negative space, simplicity and balance! Now return to the Modules page to complete your assignments and activities for this week!