On-the-Surface Web 2.0
While “Web 2.0″ means more than just the look of the sites, there are definitely elements of the Web 2.0 design trend that a designer can utilize and expand upon. The styles that epitomize Web 2.0 are already trite, yet there are still concepts that can be applied to the designs of today and tomorrow.
First, the elements that should not be taken from the Web 2.0 Design trend:
- Excessively Large Fonts - the thought behind this is for important text (purpose/goals) to “immediately” grab the eye of the user. This is unnecessary and useless; the proper usage of whitespace and slight differentiation in the text can provide a more effective and artful manner than a giant group of words selling you their site. It is as futile as image ads.
- Reflective Surfaces - this technique is already overdone and already trite. For the most part, utilizing this will make yet another “run of the mill” web design. It can be used effectively, but the best method of use is avoidance.
- Starbursts and Badges - these items are also already overdone. Essentially, they are reminiscent of infomercials with text bursting from a corner saying, “But wait, there’s more!” Again, they are practically image ads for the website itself, which can be done in a much better fashion.
Simple enough, right? Luckily, there are more elements to take from Web 2.0 design than to avoid (so long as they are not all used in conjunction with each other). Now consider what can be taken:
- Simplicity, Whitespace, and Centered Designs - while none of these originated in the Web 2.0 trend, they are concepts highly utilized in it. Each of these represents excellent features to a website. The first two are essential–a non-cluttered, nicely spaced website is attractive and useful. Because of these first two, centered designs become more practical, but are still not necessary. Left-aligned sites and fluid designed sites are other practical and attractive website.
- Sans Serif Font - accomplishes two main things: readability and a softer look. Serif fonts are still usable, but only for titles and headers, not bulk text.
- Rounded Corners - the application of rounded corners often creates an attractive layout. It is viewed to be more user-friendly and generally a softer and friendly look.
- Strong Colors - used to add emphasis to certain text or sections of the design. The fewer the instances/colors, the more effective and unique it is. It should be the exception to the rule; that is, if used rarely strong colors can be effective and attractive. These colors are not limited to the pastels and such used in Web 2.0 design. Furthermore, be wary of strong colors, for at times it will label the site that uses it as a part of the Web 2.0 Design trend.
- Gradients - before anything is said about them, please note: moderation! A website plagued with gradients will look like it was recently birthed from the Web 2.0 trend machine. That being said, the usage of gradients can compliments color schemes, bring subtle 3D effect, and soften the look of an otherwise dull or rough/sharp edge (or background).
- Simple Icons - simply a better alternative to stock photos of smiling people. It also follows the principle of simplicity. Remember, users will not think that complex icons are “more cool” simply because they are more complex. Instead, a visually pleasing and simple icon that plainly states its purpose is much more appreciated.
Finally, there are technological/structural effects that can be implemented from Web 2.0 trends:
- AJAX - always use in moderation! Subtle usages can bring visually pleasing effects that can improve the overall look of the website. Furthermore, using scripts that provide items such as Auto-Complete add to the usefulness and ease of the site. Again, though, moderation! Not only will many usages of Javascript distract from the content of the site, it can also bloat the filesize and, in effect, slow the site down significantly.
- Tag Clouds - useful at times. These graphically show popular subjects/links/etc. which is a benefit to the user. However, these do scream “Web 2.0,” so use wisely.
The two principles to remember when applying these are simplicity and moderation. And excess of any of these techniques/items encompass the very look of the Web 2.0 design trend. This is obviously not the purpose. The purpose is to utilize certain design elements that can enhance a look, instead of simply buying into a fading trend.