Chapter 1 -- Making Effective Graphics

 

Knowing the Functions of Web Graphics

Graphics on the Web serve much the same function as they do in traditional publications, with a couple additions:

• A Web graphic must add to the communication of information. If the graphic is used strictly as an embellishment, it must generate the desired effect in the reader, not simply take up space.
• A Web graphic must be appropriate in content, scale, file format, and style. Use a line illustration to show an abstraction of reality. This allows the reader to focus on the desired information. Use a photograph when spatial, environmental, or material information is needed.
• A Web graphic must be matched to the visual and technical skills of the intended client. What is the visual acuity and competency of the client?
• A Web graphic must be tailored to the technology available to display it. If 95 percent of your potential clients have 8-bit video, don't waste your time with 24-bit images.

A graphic interface must be intuitive. Your client must easily determine how to navigate through the site and what elements are clickable. The design itself must be coherent. That is, it must make sense. One way to achieve this is by presenting a consistent look and feel to your pages. Different colors for the background on each page? I think not. Highly detailed background tiles? Don't even think about it. Control panels that move around from page to page, introductions in different sizes and different text fonts, and a variety of buttons and click boxes? Not! Finally, pages must have readability. Your text passages should have sufficient white space and include descriptive heads. Your writing must be appropriate for the desired audience.