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Embracing Dark Mode: A Design Trend That's Here to Stay in 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of web design, certain trends emerge that not only capture our attention but also become enduring elements shaping the digital experience. One such trend that has transitioned from being a novelty to a design staple is Dark Mode. As we step into 2024, the continued prominence of dark mode in web design stands as a testament to its appeal and functionality. In this blog, we'll delve into the reasons behind its enduring popularity, its impact on user experience and accessibility, and showcase websites that have adeptly embraced this sleek and modern aesthetic.

The Dark Mode Resurgence

Dark mode has come a long way from being a niche feature to becoming a mainstream design choice. Its resurgence can be attributed to its aesthetic appeal, which goes beyond being merely trendy. Dark mode offers users a visually immersive and comfortable experience, particularly in low-light conditions. As we investigate its continued prominence, we find that dark mode has become a design language that transcends individual preferences, impacting user engagement and satisfaction across various digital platforms.

Aesthetic Sophistication:

Dark mode isn't just a design preference; it's a statement of aesthetic sophistication. The muted colour palette creates a sense of elegance and modernity, providing a canvas that allows other elements to shine. Websites and applications adopting dark mode often exude a sleek and refined aesthetic that resonates with users seeking a contemporary and visually pleasing experience.

Alignment with Contemporary Design Sensibilities:

The visual appeal of dark mode aligns seamlessly with contemporary design sensibilities. As the digital landscape evolves, users gravitate towards interfaces that not only look good but also offer a harmonious visual experience. Dark mode's inherent allure caters to this preference, making it a design choice that resonates with modern audiences.

Impact on User Experience

1. Visual Comfort and Immersion

Dark mode's primary advantage lies in its ability to reduce eye strain and fatigue, especially during extended periods of screen time. The subdued contrast between text and background in dark mode minimises glare, providing a comfortable reading experience. Users find themselves immersed in content without the harshness associated with traditional light interfaces.

2. Enhancing Focus and Attention

Dark mode has proven effective in drawing attention to specific elements on a webpage. By reducing the prominence of background elements, dark mode directs focus towards the content, making it stand out more prominently. This enhances readability and ensures that users can effortlessly navigate through the interface.

3. Night-time Browsing Delight:

As users increasingly embrace night-time browsing habits, dark mode becomes a key facilitator of a delightful digital experience. The gentle glow of dark backgrounds reduces the overall brightness of screens, making it conducive to relaxed and comfortable browsing, especially in low-light environments.

Impact on Accessibility

1. Inclusivity in Design

The continued integration of dark mode across web platforms is contributing to a more inclusive design ethos. Users with visual impairments, light sensitivity, or certain visual disorders find dark mode to be a friendlier option. It ensures that digital experiences are accessible to a broader audience, fostering a sense of inclusivity in the online space.

2. Customisation for User Preferences

Dark mode isn't just about aesthetics; it's about empowering users with choice. Websites that offer a dark mode option allow users to tailor their experience based on personal preferences and visual comfort. This flexibility enhances accessibility, providing a more personalised interaction with digital content.

Impact on Energy Efficiency

Beyond its impact on the user experience, dark mode has also garnered attention for its potential in contributing to energy efficiency. On devices with OLED or AMOLED screens, dark mode reduces the energy consumption of individual pixels, leading to potential battery savings, which aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable design practices.

Sustainability in Design:

The environmentally conscious shift towards sustainable design practices is influencing every aspect of the digital realm. Dark mode's potential to reduce energy consumption on devices with specific screen technologies aligns seamlessly with this sustainability drive. As users become more environmentally aware, the adoption of dark mode contributes to a collective effort towards a greener digital footprint.

Showcasing Dark Mode Done Right

1. YouTube: Cinematic Elegance

YouTube's implementation of dark mode adds a touch of cinematic elegance to the platform. The contrast between the dark background and vibrant video thumbnails enhances the overall viewing experience. This design choice not only aligns with user preferences but also contributes to prolonged engagement on the platform.

2. Slack: Seamless Collaboration

Slack's dark mode seamlessly integrates into the platform's collaborative environment. The muted colour palette ensures that messages and interactions take centre stage, creating a distraction-free workspace. This implementation enhances user focus and provides a visually polished interface for effective communication.

3. Reddit: Redefining Community Interaction

Reddit's dark mode goes beyond aesthetics, redefining how users interact with the platform. The subdued background allows the content and conversations to shine, creating a more immersive and focused browsing experience. This design choice reflects Reddit's commitment to user-centric design and enhancing the overall community engagement.

Conclusion:

As we navigate the digital realms of 2024, it's evident that dark mode has evolved from a passing trend to a design staple. Its continued prominence can be attributed to its multifaceted impact on user experience, accessibility, and even energy efficiency. Dark mode isn't merely a design choice; it's a commitment to creating digital experiences that are visually engaging, inclusive, and user-friendly. As web designers and users alike embrace this sleek and modern aesthetic, it's safe to say that dark mode is not just a trend – it's here to stay, defining the digital aesthetics of 2024 and beyond. So, as you scroll through your favourite websites, consider the impact of dark mode on your digital journey – a journey that's comfortable, immersive, and visually captivating.

Ready to immerse in the future of web design? Embrace dark mode for a sleek, comfortable, and visually captivating online experience. Get in contact today!

Posted in Mobile Apps, Graphic Design, Web Design Trends, Website Design

The Role of Colour Psychology in Web Design

In the digital age, the success of a website is often measured not only by its functionality and content but also by its visual appeal. 

Web design has evolved from simple, text-heavy pages to vibrant and interactive platforms that cater to a wide range of user preferences and expectations. Central to this transformation is the use of colour, which plays a vital role in web design. The field of colour psychology explores how colours can influence human emotions and behaviour. 

In this blog, we'll delve into how colour psychology impacts web design and guide you on choosing the right colour schemes for your site.

Understanding Colour Psychology

Colour psychology is a branch of psychology that examines how different colours can affect human thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It's a fascinating field that has been applied to various aspects of our lives, from marketing and branding to interior design and web design.

In web design, colour psychology is leveraged to create websites that not only look aesthetically pleasing but also serve the intended purpose effectively. Different colours can evoke specific emotional responses, and understanding these responses is crucial for designing websites that resonate with users.

The Impact of Colours on Emotions and Behaviour

Colours have a profound impact on human emotions and behaviour. Here's a breakdown of how various colours can influence users on your website:

Red: 

Red is a high-energy colour associated with passion, excitement, and urgency. It can be used to grab users' attention and encourage them to take action. For example, many e-commerce websites use red for their "Buy Now" buttons to prompt quick purchasing decisions.

Blue:

Blue is often associated with trust, reliability, and calmness. It's a popular choice for corporate websites and social media platforms. Lighter shades of blue can create a sense of serenity, while darker blues can convey professionalism and stability.

Green: 

Green is often linked to nature, health, and growth. It can be used to convey messages of eco-friendliness, relaxation, and freshness. Many websites in the health and wellness industry use green to create a sense of trust and well-being.

Yellow: 

Yellow is a bright and cheerful colour that evokes feelings of positivity and happiness. It can be used to draw attention and stimulate optimism. However, excessive use of yellow can be overwhelming, so it should be used sparingly.

Purple:

Purple is associated with luxury, creativity, and spirituality. It's often used in websites targeting a more artistic or niche audience. Deep purples can convey a sense of opulence, while lighter shades can evoke feelings of creativity and imagination.

Orange:

Orange is a colour of enthusiasm, energy, and warmth. It's an attention-grabbing colour that can be used to encourage action. Orange is often used for call-to-action buttons and elements meant to stand out.

Black and White:

Black is often associated with sophistication and elegance, while white conveys simplicity and purity. These two colors are frequently used together in web design to create a clean and modern look. They are often used in minimalist or high-end fashion websites.

Choosing the Right Colour Schemes

Now that we understand how colours can influence emotions and behaviour, the next step is to choose the right colour schemes for your website. Here are some tips to help you make informed decisions:

Know Your Audience: Understanding your target audience is essential. Different colours may resonate differently with various demographics and cultures. Conduct research or surveys to determine what colours your audience prefers and associates with your industry.

Stay Consistent with Branding: If your website represents a brand, the colour scheme should align with the brand's identity. Consistency in branding helps in building trust and recognition among users. Coca-Cola, for example, is inseparable from its iconic red and white colour scheme.

Consider the Emotional Impact: Think about the emotions you want to evoke in your users. If you want to create a sense of trust, you might consider using shades of blue. If you want to encourage action, red or orange may be more appropriate.

Balance and Contrast: Effective web design often involves using a combination of colours that balance and contrast with each other. This makes your website visually appealing and easy to navigate. Use tools like colour wheels to find complementary colours.

Test and Iterate: Web design is not a one-time process. It's essential to test your colour choices and gather feedback from users. Conduct A/B testing to see which colour schemes perform better in achieving your goals.

Accessibility: Ensure that your chosen colour scheme is accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments. Use colour combinations that provide sufficient contrast and consider alternative text and other accessibility features.

Case Studies: The Power of Colour in Web Design

Let's take a closer look at some websites that effectively leverage colour psychology to enhance user experience and achieve their goals.

1. Airbnb:

Airbnb's website predominantly uses a calming and trust-evoking shade of blue. The colour scheme is consistent with their brand and creates a sense of reliability for users searching for accommodations. The use of green in call-to-action buttons promotes bookings, and the overall design is user-friendly.

2. McDonald's:

McDonald's uses red and yellow, which are known for evoking excitement and enthusiasm. These colours encourage users to feel hungry and act quickly. The colour scheme aligns with the fast-food industry's goal of serving customers promptly.

3. Patagonia:

Patagonia, a company known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, uses earthy greens and blues in its web design. These colours convey a sense of nature and eco-friendliness, aligning with the brand's values and target audience.

4. Apple:

Apple's website design is minimalist and modern, predominantly using black and white. These colours convey sophistication and simplicity, mirroring the brand's identity and high-end products.

Conclusion

Colour psychology is a powerful tool in web design that can significantly influence user emotions and behaviour. By understanding the emotional impact of colours and choosing the right colour schemes, web designers can create websites that effectively communicate the desired message, capture user attention, and encourage actions. Remember that successful web design isn't just about aesthetics; it's about connecting with your audience on an emotional level and guiding them towards your goals. So, when designing or redesigning a website, don't underestimate the role of color in creating a meaningful and impactful user experience.

Posted in Graphic Design, Website Design, Web Design Trends

Latest Graphic Design Trends for Your Branding and Marketing

Graphic design isn't just about aesthetics; it's the language that speaks for your brand. From logos to colours and fonts, visual elements define your business identity and make a lasting impression on customers. Staying attuned to graphic design trends is crucial, as these trends capture audience attention and make your brand appear modern and relevant in a competitive marketplace. In this blog, we'll explore current graphic design trends and how they can elevate your branding and marketing efforts.

Why do graphic design trends matter?

Graphic design plays a pivotal role in shaping a company's brand identity. 

It's not merely about creating aesthetically pleasing visuals; it's about crafting a visual language that communicates the essence of your brand. 

Your logo, colour scheme, typography, and overall design elements are the first things customers encounter, and they leave a lasting impression. A well-designed brand identity resonates with your target audience, instills trust, and sets you apart from competitors. 

Moreover, staying attuned to graphic design trends is essential. These trends are the pulse of contemporary aesthetics, and they have the power to captivate your audience's attention. 

When you harness the latest design trends effectively, your brand appears modern, relevant, and in touch with the times, making it more likely to stand out and engage your customers in a crowded marketplace.

Current Graphic Design Trends

Minimalism

What is minimalistic design?

Less is more, and minimalism embodies this principle perfectly. Clean lines, ample white space, and a focus on essential elements make minimalist designs visually pleasing and easy to understand. Take a look at Apple's website for a prime example of minimalistic design, where simplicity and functionality converge seamlessly.


How to Incorporate Minimalist Design

When embracing minimalism in branding, focus on simplifying your logo and visual elements. Use clean lines, a limited colour palette, and concise typography. Think of brands like Google and Airbnb, whose minimalistic logos instantly convey a sense of modernity and simplicity.  

Using Minimalist Design in Marketing Materials

Minimalistic design can be a powerful tool in marketing. Think about simplifying your email newsletters, social media visuals, or product packaging. By decluttering your marketing materials, you make your messages more accessible and memorable. 

Ensure that this minimalist approach extends to your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials. Consistency in your choice of colours and fonts helps reinforce the minimalist aesthetic throughout your brand.

Bold Typography

Typography can make or break a design, and bold typography is taking centre stage. Oversized fonts with strong, impactful messages instantly draw attention. Brands like Nike use bold typography effectively to convey their empowering messages.

 

How to Incorporate Bold Typography in Design

Integrate bold typography in your brand's messaging. Consider using bold fonts for your taglines or key brand messages to make a bold statement. Brands like Netflix use bold typography effectively in their promotional materials. 

Keep the same bold fonts consistent across all brand materials, from your website design to your business cards. Consistency in typography reinforces your brand's voice and personality. Incorporating bold typography into your ad campaigns can make your messages stand out. Consider using attention-grabbing headlines or taglines in larger, bold fonts to create an immediate impact.

Using Bold Typography in Advertisements

Incorporating bold typography into your ad campaigns can make your messages stand out. Consider using attention-grabbing headlines or taglines in larger, bold fonts to create an immediate impact.

Illustrations

Three-dimensional elements add depth and a sense of realism to designs. They can make your visuals pop and grab your audience's attention. Look at how Airbnb uses illustrations to make their online experiences more enticing.


How to Incorporate Illustrations in Design

Use illustrations to create immersive and eye-catching brand experiences. Incorporate illustrations into your website's design or product visuals. Brands like Apple employ illustrations to showcase their product features.

Ensure that the illustrations align with your brand's overall style and colour scheme. Consistency in the use of illustrations maintains a unified brand identity.

Using Illustrations in Product Promotions

Use illustrations to showcase your products or services in a dynamic and engaging way. Whether it's a virtual tour of a property or a rendering of a product, this trend can captivate your audience's imagination.

Retro and Vintage Styles

Nostalgia never goes out of style. Retro and vintage design elements are making a comeback, appealing to audiences' sense of nostalgia and authenticity. Coca-Cola, with its timeless logo, is a prime example of how a vintage design can stand the test of time.

How to Incorporate Retro and Vintage Styles in Design

To infuse your branding with a touch of nostalgia, adopt retro and vintage elements in your logo, packaging, or advertising campaigns. Brands like Levi's leverage vintage styles to connect with their heritage.

Maintain the retro vibe throughout your branding materials. Use vintage-inspired colour schemes and typography consistently to evoke the desired nostalgic feel.

Using Retro and Vintage styles in Campaigns

Leverage nostalgia to create a connection with your audience. Retro and vintage design elements can be particularly effective in advertising campaigns for products or services with a rich history or heritage.

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design

As environmental consciousness grows, sustainable design is becoming more important. Brands are adopting eco-friendly colour schemes, using recycled materials, and emphasising sustainability in their visual identity. Patagonia's commitment to eco-friendliness is reflected in its design choices.

How to Incorporate Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design: Showcase your commitment to sustainability through eco-friendly design elements. Implement earthy colour palettes, natural textures, and eco-conscious imagery in your branding. Companies like Patagonia incorporate these elements into their branding to convey their environmental values.

Ensure that sustainability is evident in your messaging and visuals across all touchpoints. Consistency in eco-friendly design reinforces your brand's dedication to environmental responsibility.

Using Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design in Branding

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design in Branding: If your brand emphasises sustainability, carry this theme into your marketing materials. Use eco-friendly imagery, colours, and messaging to highlight your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Dark Mode Design

With the increasing prevalence of dark mode in apps and websites, dark mode design is a trend to watch. Dark backgrounds with bright accents offer a sleek and modern look. Twitter, for instance, has implemented dark mode effectively for a more comfortable nighttime viewing experience.

  Credit: Fabian Sommer / picture alliance via Getty Images

How to Incorporate Dark Mode Design

For a sleek and modern look, embrace dark mode design in your digital branding. Implement dark backgrounds with contrasting text and graphics to create a visually striking experience. Brands like Twitter offer dark mode options for users.

Maintain dark mode design consistently across your website, mobile app, and other digital assets. Consistency ensures a seamless user experience and reinforces your brand's modern aesthetic.

Using Dark Mode Design in Promotions

If you have a mobile app or website, consider offering a dark mode option. Promote this feature in your marketing materials to appeal to users who prefer a sleek, modern look.

Abstract and Artistic Elements

Abstract and artistic design elements can add a touch of creativity and intrigue to your brand. They allow for more artistic freedom and can be used to express complex ideas in a visually appealing way. Spotify uses abstract art in its promotional materials to capture the spirit of music.


 Credit: picture via Marketing Mag

How to Incorporate Abstract and Artistic Elements in Design

Infuse your brand with creativity by using abstract and artistic elements in your visuals and graphics. These elements can add a unique and intriguing dimension to your branding. Spotify, for instance, uses abstract art in its marketing materials.

While embracing abstract elements, make sure they align with your brand's message and identity. Consistency in the use of abstract art maintains a coherent brand image.

Using Abstract and Artistic Elements in Creative Content

Inject creativity into your marketing materials with abstract and artistic design elements. These can be particularly useful for conveying complex ideas or emotions in a visually appealing way.

In a world driven by visuals, graphic design trends matter more than ever. They're the brushstrokes that paint your brand's identity and the melodies that resonate with your audience. From minimalism to bold typography, illustrations to sustainable design, and dark mode to abstract art, these trends offer a dynamic toolbox to enhance your branding and marketing efforts.

Ready to transform your branding and marketing efforts with the latest graphic design trends? Contact us today!

Posted in Branding, Graphic Design, Marketing, Web Design Trends, Website Design

Accessible by Design: Enhancing User Experience through Inclusive Graphics

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, the concept of inclusive and accessible graphic design has emerged as a guiding light, illuminating a path towards digital spaces that are welcoming, informative, and empowering for all. Beyond mere aesthetics, this philosophy is a testament to the power of design to transcend barriers and foster connections. In this exploration, we embark on a journey to unravel the intricacies of inclusive graphic design, delving into its core principles, techniques, and the profound impact it has on user experiences.

What is Inclusive and Accessible Graphic Design?

Inclusive graphic design is a philosophy that embraces diversity and ensures that all users, regardless of their abilities, can access and engage with digital content. 

It goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on creating visuals that cater to a wide range of users, including those with disabilities. Let's delve into the core concepts that define inclusive graphic design and its impact on user experience.

What makes good accessible design?

Inclusive graphic design involves crafting visuals and visual elements that are accessible and usable by everyone, regardless of their abilities. It's about creating content that considers the diverse needs of users, including those with visual, auditory, cognitive, and motor impairments. 

Inclusive design aims to eliminate barriers and ensure that all users can interact with digital content in meaningful ways.

How do you design for users with disabilities?

Designing with users with disabilities in mind is a fundamental aspect of inclusive graphic design. Visual impairments, colour blindness, hearing impairments, and mobility challenges are just a few examples of the disabilities that can impact how users interact with digital content. 

Inclusive design strives to address these challenges by providing alternative ways of perceiving and interacting with information.

Does accessible design only benefit those with disabilities?

The principles of inclusive design extend beyond just accommodating users with disabilities; they benefit all users. 

  • Clear typography, high contrast, and well-structured layouts enhance readability and make content more digestible for everyone. 
  • Providing alternative text for images not only helps users with visual impairments but also aids in better understanding of content for search engines and those using text-based browsers.
  • Inclusive graphic design promotes a consistent and intuitive user experience across various devices and screen sizes. 
  • Design elements that are accessible and adaptable contribute to a smoother interaction, regardless of the user's context.

How do I make my design accessible?

Creating inclusive graphics requires a thoughtful approach that considers the diverse needs of users. Here are some essential techniques that can help you design visuals that are accessible and user-friendly for everyone:

4 Techniques for Creating Inclusive Graphics

1. Color Contrast and Readability

The significance of colour contrast cannot be overstated when designing for users with visual impairments. Proper colour contrast ensures that text and visuals remain distinguishable, even for those with colour blindness or low vision. Techniques like the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) provide standards for minimum colour contrast ratios. Ensuring a sufficient contrast ratio between text and background improves readability and comprehension.

2. Alternative Text for Images

Providing alternative text (alt text) for images is a cornerstone of inclusive design. Alt text serves as a textual description of images, allowing screen readers to convey the content to users with visual impairments. It's essential to write descriptive alt text that accurately conveys the meaning and context of the image. This not only benefits users who rely on screen readers but also aids in search engine optimisation and helps all users understand the purpose of the image.

3. Typography and Readability

Typography plays a crucial role in enhancing readability for users with varying visual abilities. Select fonts that are easy to read and avoid elaborate or decorative styles that might hinder comprehension. Consider font size and spacing to ensure comfortable reading. Larger fonts and appropriate line spacing contribute to a smoother reading experience for users with visual impairments or cognitive challenges.

4. Navigation and User Interface

Designing an accessible user interface is paramount to creating a positive user experience for everyone. Ensure that navigation elements are intuitive and easy to interact with, especially for users with motor impairments. Use clear labels and consistent design patterns to guide users through the interface. Consider implementing keyboard navigation and focus indicators to assist users who navigate without a mouse. Providing alternative ways to interact, such as voice commands, can also enhance accessibility.

How does accessible design have a positive impact on user experience?

Inclusive graphic design goes beyond compliance; it transforms user experiences, particularly for those with disabilities. By crafting visuals that cater to diverse needs, designers can empower users and create universally usable content that resonates with a broader audience.

Empowering Users with Disabilities

The stories of users with disabilities experiencing the benefits of accessible graphic design are powerful testaments to the impact of inclusive practices. From individuals with visual impairments understanding images through screen readers to those with motor impairments smoothly navigating interfaces, accessible design enhances their online interactions. These stories exemplify how thoughtful design choices can break down barriers and empower users to engage more fully with digital content.

Inclusive graphics contribute to the overall web experience by offering equal access to information and enabling users to interact seamlessly. Users with disabilities are no longer limited by design barriers, allowing them to explore websites, absorb content, and engage with online communities.

Creating Universally Usable Content

Inclusive design principles have a ripple effect that extends to all users, regardless of their abilities. The adjustments made to enhance accessibility often result in content that's more straightforward, clearer, and universally usable. Captions for videos, descriptive alt text for images, and well-structured layouts benefit not only users with disabilities but also users in different contexts, such as mobile devices or noisy environments.

The value of reaching a wider audience cannot be underestimated. When content is accessible to a diverse range of users, engagement and interaction levels increase. Users appreciate the effort put into creating content that caters to their needs, fostering a sense of inclusion and building positive relationships between users and brands.

Inclusive graphic design isn't solely about ticking checkboxes; it's about creating an online space that's welcoming, empowering, and usable for everyone. By embracing these principles, designers not only contribute to improved user experiences but also play a pivotal role in building a more inclusive digital world.

What is an example of accessible design?

An example of accessible design can be witnessed through a mobile application that seamlessly integrates inclusive principles to cater to a diverse user base. 

This app would employ high colour contrast, making content easily distinguishable for users with visual impairments. Each image would be accompanied by comprehensive alt text, ensuring that screen reader users receive equivalent information. 

Additionally, the app would offer a voice interface option, enabling users with motor impairments to navigate and interact effortlessly through voice commands. 

These elements would collectively create an experience that's not only welcoming for users with disabilities but also intuitive and enjoyable for all users. 

This showcases how thoughtful implementation of inclusive design principles can elevate user experiences and foster a sense of inclusivity within the digital realm.

Future Trends in Inclusive Graphic Design

The landscape of inclusive graphic design is continuously evolving, driven by emerging technologies and innovative trends. As we look ahead, it's fascinating to explore how these advancements are redefining the boundaries of accessible design and reshaping the future of digital experiences.

Emerging Technologies and Trends

Inclusive graphic design is at the forefront of a technological evolution that is making digital experiences more accessible and engaging for everyone. The integration of emerging technologies and innovative trends is pushing the boundaries of what's possible in the realm of accessible design.

AI and Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning hold immense potential for inclusive design. These technologies can automatically generate alt text for images, making content more accessible for users with visual impairments. Additionally, AI-powered tools can enhance readability by suggesting font sizes and styles that cater to individual preferences. These advancements empower designers to create content that's accessible by default.

Voice Interfaces and Accessibility

Voice interfaces are revolutionising how users interact with digital content, especially for individuals with motor impairments or those who prefer auditory interactions. Voice-controlled interfaces provide an alternative way of engaging with websites and applications, making the online experience more inclusive. Designing with voice interactions in mind requires reimagining user flows, content hierarchy, and navigation structures.

Immersive Experiences and Accessibility

Immersive technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), are opening new avenues for accessible design. While challenges exist in ensuring inclusive experiences within immersive environments, designers are exploring innovative solutions. Immersive experiences can be tailored to accommodate various user needs, including customisable visuals and interactive elements that respond to voice commands.

Beyond Visual and Auditory Accessibility

Inclusive graphic design is expanding to encompass other senses beyond sight and sound. Tactile graphics and haptic feedback offer new dimensions of accessibility for users with visual impairments. Designing with touch and physical interaction in mind adds layers of engagement for users who rely on touch-based interfaces.

As we conclude this voyage into the realm of inclusive and accessible graphic design, one thing becomes abundantly clear: the power of design transcends visual allure and enters the realm of social responsibility. Inclusive design is more than a trend; it's a commitment to building a digital world that reflects the diversity of its users. By embracing these principles, we not only enhance the experiences of individuals with disabilities but also create spaces that are more intuitive, engaging, and universally accessible. As technology continues to evolve, the potential for inclusive design to shape our digital interactions becomes even more pronounced. As designers, developers, and content creators, our responsibility is to champion design that knows no barriers, ensuring that every user's journey through the digital landscape is a seamless, empowering, and inclusive experience.

Posted in Graphic Design, Website Design

Why You Should Still Have Business Cards

Business man in suit handing out a business card

In a world driven by digital communication, the role of business cards may seem diminished. However, professionals continue to recognise the value of business cards as a tangible representation of their brand and expertise. This blog post will explore why you should have a business card and how to design it effectively. From making a lasting impression to enhancing credibility and facilitating seamless information exchange. Business cards play a vital role in establishing a professional identity in today's competitive landscape.

Do professionals still use business cards?

Business cards may seem outdated. However, professionals continue to use business cards despite advancements in digital communication. Business cards serve as tangible representation of professional identity and are still widely used in various industries and networking settings.

The importance of establishing a professional identity

In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, establishing a solid professional image is crucial for success, as people are naturally drawn to individuals who project professionalism. 

Your professional image encompasses various factors, including appearance, behaviour, and communication skills. Employers, clients, and business partners are more likely to trust and engage with individuals who have a professional image. 

A professional image enhances your chances of securing job opportunities or business deals and fosters long-lasting relationships built on trust and respect.

Why you need business cards

Tangible Representation -  Business cards serve as a tangible representation of your brand and expertise. It allows you to showcase your unique identity and communicate key information about yourself or your business in a concise and visually appealing manner.

Networking Tool - Networking events and professional meetings often involve exchanging contact information with numerous individuals. Amidst the sea of digital connections, a well-designed business card stands out and makes a lasting impression as a physical reminder of your encounter. 

Enhances Credibility and Professionalism - A professionally designed business card signals that you take your work seriously and pay attention to details. Presenting a well-crafted business card instils confidence in the recipient, showcasing your commitment to professionalism and excellence. 

Exchange Details Seamlessly - Business cards provide a hassle-free and reliable way to share your information. Handing over your business card ensures that your contact details are easily accessible, allowing for a smooth and efficient follow-up process.

Digital is not enough - While digital platforms offer convenience in exchanging contact information, they can be impersonal and prone to technological glitches. Business cards eliminate the need for typing or searching through contact lists, allowing for a seamless exchange of information in face-to-face interactions. 

How to design professional business cards

Your business cards should…

Reflect your brand identity and values

  1. Choose a colour scheme that represents your brand to evoke the desired emotions.
  2. Use fonts that are legible and align with your brand’s personality.
  3. Strategically place your logo for maximum visibility.

Ensure readability and clarity

  1. Choose fonts that are easy to read, even at smaller sizes ensuring text is not too small or too crowded.
  2. Arrange the information on your card in a logical and easily scannable way. 
  3. Use hierarchy to emphasise essential details, such as your name and job title.

Include essential information

  1. Display your name and position and/or job offering 
  2. Include your phone number, email address, and physical address if relevant.
  3. Include your website URL and social media handles to encourage online engagement if applicable.

Use high-quality materials

  1. Use thick cardstock to give your card a premium feel and durability. 
  2. Consider finishes like matte, gloss, or textured coatings to enhance visual appeal.
  3. Consider using special finishes like foil stamping, embossing, or spot UV to add a touch of uniqueness and make your card visually distinctive.

All business cards should be optimised for the business card dimensions 90mm x 55mm

Layout and Composition

The layout and composition of your business card play a more important role than you may realise in creating a visually appealing and effective design.

How do I layout and compose my business cards?

Balance visual elements and incorporate graphics

Placement - strategically position your text and logo to create visual hierarchy. The most important information, such as name and job title, should be prominent.

Utilise white space - leave sufficient white space (empty space) around each element to improve readability and create a clean and elegant design. White space also helps guide the viewer's eye and highlights important information.

Experiment - create multiple options with different arrangements until you achieve the one that is most visually appealing.

Graphics - use relevant icons, images, or patterns to enhance visual interest. Icons can be used to represent contact information (e.g., phone, email) or social media handles.

Maintain clean design - keep the design clean and uncluttered, allowing each element to breathe. This ensures that your information is easily readable and creates a professional impression.

Should my business cards include a logo?

Yes, including a logo on your business cards is highly recommended. A logo is a visual representation of your brand and serves as a powerful tool that can strengthen your brand identity, enhance professionalism, and help you make a memorable impression. When designing your business card, consider the size and placement of your logo to ensure it is prominently displayed and easily recognisable. Ensure your logo is in high resolution and properly scaled to maintain quality when printed on the business card.

Printing and Production

Once the card design is finalised, it is time to get quality prints of your business cards.

What should I consider when getting my business cards printed?

Select a reputable printing service and double check the information

Research - Researching print quality, options, and pricing: Look for printing services that offer high-quality printing options suitable for your desired card design. Consider factors such as paper stock options, finishes, and printing techniques.

Request samples - request print samples and proofs before committing to a printing service so that you can evaluate the quality of their work. Additionally, ask for a proof of your business card design to ensure it appears as expected before proceeding with the full print run. 

Proofread for typos and errors - carefully review your business card design, paying close attention to contact details, job titles, names, and any other textual information. Look for spelling errors, incorrect phone numbers, or outdated information.

Double-check the design - ensure the design aligns with the printing requirements of your chosen print provider. There may be specific guidelines for file formats, bleed areas, and colour modes, so ensure your design meets these requirements to avoid any issues during printing. Convert your design to the appropriate colour mode (such as CMYK) and include necessary bleed areas.

Here is what to avoid on your business cards

  1. Cluttered design - Avoid overcrowding your business card with excessive text, graphics, or images. A cluttered design can make it difficult for recipients to read and process the information. Maintain a clean, organised layout that allows the key elements to stand out.
  2. Illegible fonts - Choose fonts that are clear, legible, and appropriate for your industry. Avoid using overly decorative or complex fonts that can hinder readability. Ensure that the font size is large enough to be easily read, especially for contact information.
  3. Poor colour choices - Be mindful of your colour choices and avoid using too many colours that clash or distract from the overall design. Stick to a limited colour palette that aligns with your brand and maintains visual harmony.
  4. Inconsistent branding - Your business card should be consistent with your overall branding, including your logo, colour scheme, and typography. Inconsistencies can confuse recipients and dilute your brand identity. Ensure that your business card aligns with your other marketing materials.
  5. Outdated or incorrect information - Double-check all the information on your business card to ensure its accuracy. Outdated or inaccurate information can lead to confusion and missed opportunities. Keep your contact details, job title, and other relevant information up to date.
  6. Low-quality printing and materials - Opt for high-quality printing and materials for your business cards. Avoid using cheap or flimsy cardstock that can make a negative impression. Poor printing quality can also result in blurred text or images. Invest in professional printing services to ensure a polished final product.
  7. Irrelevant or excessive information - Include only essential information on your business card. Avoid including irrelevant details that can clutter the design. Stick to your name, job title, company name, phone number, email address, and website. Optionally, include social media handles or a QR code to access online profiles easily.

How can I utilise my business cards to their fullest potential?

Beyond the design and printing of your business card, there are additional strategies you can employ to maximise its impact and leverage it effectively in various professional settings. Consider the following tips:

Engage in networking interactions

  1. You are proud of your business cards, right? Well, so are others. When someone hands you their business card, take the time to engage in a meaningful conversation and show genuine interest in their work or business.
  2. After receiving a business card, make it a point to follow up with a personalised message or email.
  3. When following up, reference your conversation or any points discussed to demonstrate that you value the connection.

Use them strategically in networking or professional settings

  1. Carry a stack of business cards to networking events and exchange them when you meet potential collaborators, clients, or employers. 
  2. Ensure your business cards are easily accessible and present them professionally.
  3. Use the opportunity to establish connections and follow up afterward.

Keep them up-to-date

  1. Ensure your business cards are easily accessible and present them professionally.
  2. Outdated information can create confusion and undermine your professionalism.
  3. Keep track of the number of business cards you have on hand and replenish them as needed. Running out of cards can be inconvenient and leave a negative impression.

So, are business cards worth it?

Business cards continue to be an essential tool for professionals. They serve as tangible representations of your brand, make a lasting impression, enhance credibility, and facilitate seamless information exchange. When designing your business cards, remember to reflect your brand identity, ensure readability, include essential information, and use high-quality materials. Additionally, use your business cards whilst networking and in professional settings making sure to keep them up to date. By following these tips, you can maximise the impact of your business cards and elevate your professional image in today's competitive world.

Need a graphic designer to create professional business cards for your business? Get in touch today!

Posted in Branding, Graphic Design, Logo Design, Marketing, Printing

Why You Still Need a Business Card in 2021

standard business card nz

While some might argue that business cards are no longer relevant in our increasingly digital world, the same argument has been made about brochures and print magazines, which continue to be popular amongst consumers and business people. In this article, we look at why business cards remain a valuable tool for marketing and communication.

Here’s a typical scenario—you meet a potential customer at a trade show and agree to exchange contact information. You open your contacts app and ask for their name, mobile number, and email. It’s a noisy hall, and you’re not sure you’ve entered their name correctly. Did you get their email address right? Did you remember to save the contact in your app? The whole exchange is clumsy and time-consuming. Sure, you could share your contact details over Bluetooth, but many people are wary of receiving files on their phone from someone they’ve likely just met.

By contrast, the mutual exchange of business cards takes seconds and guarantees both you and they have the correct contact information in an attractive, wallet-friendly format. When someone presents you with their business card, being able to reciprocate with your own card undoubtedly helps the business relationship get off to the best possible start.

Also, having printed business cards doesn’t mean you can’t embrace digital technology. A QR code printed on the back can be easily scanned (something we’ve all gotten used to over the past year!), directing users to your online profile, company homepage, or e-commerce site.

 

What a business card says about your business

Business cards help reinforce your brand, displaying your logo, company byline, or tagline. By handing out a professionally designed and printed business card, you demonstrate that your company is established and credible. A memorable slogan on your card can be a real conversation starter too, allowing you to explain your business to a potential customer.

Another undeniable benefit of a printed business card is the opportunity to add extra information on the back, such as an appointment time, a thank you note, or even a quick quote. Business cards can be slipped in with gifts or left as a calling card.

Modern digital printing techniques allow for short print runs, so business cards can be produced in smaller batches and adapted to suit any changes to your business. You may wish to have special cards created for a large event or promotion, complete with a discount code. So your business card not only delivers your company’s information, it has a tangible value that will encourage the receiver to keep the card for longer.

What are the correct business card dimensions?

While business card dimensions are not as critical as they used to be, many people still use Filofax sleeves or desktop Rolodexes to store their important contacts. It’s worth sticking to a standard business card size such as 90 x 55 millimetres or 86 x 55 millimetres.  This new, smaller size fits better into wallets and has become a print standard.

Business card size might be fairly standard, but there are many ways to add impact through good design, quality print materials, and colour choice. Ensure your card design is consistent with your brand by using the same artwork, colour palette and typefaces.

Business cards remain a vital first point of contact with potential customers—this small printed card may be the first exposure they have to your company! So it pays to make a good first impression. Here at Activate Design, we can help you put together a complete brand portfolio, including print and digital assets.

Contact our team to start designing your business cards now!

Posted in Graphic Design, Marketing

Understanding Typography in Good Web Design

typography word stack image

What is typography?

Simply put, typography is the style or appearance of text. And though you may not believe it, good typography can make or break a user experience.

But before the internet age, it was known as the art of logically arranging and designing the text of any printed matter to make it logical and easy to read while also having a pleasing and attractive look.

Good typography was considered essential when it came to the publishing of books, manuscripts, newspapers, and other types of print media.

Nowadays, this form of art is still held to a high standard. But with digital media and the internet becoming more popular over print media, some of typography’s finer points are being forgotten in place of flashy animations, high-resolution images, and stylised backgrounds.

This is especially evident in website development, where many website designers often rely on attractive graphics, auto-playing videos, and other distracting features to attract visitors and compel them to stay on the page.

Unfortunately, this particular trend can have a detrimental effect on a website’s ability to keep their visitors around, especially when such features have become commonplace.

As such, it is up to web developers to employ best practices for typography to ensure that their websites remain effective in attracting visitors.

Best Practices for Typography

Good typography immediately communicates the website’s purpose to the visitor. Once landing on a webpage, a user will immediately begin scanning for information.

This information needs to be easily found, otherwise the user will exit the website and you’ll lose a potential customer.

Font Choice

A clear, easy to read font that is appropriately sized will make their experience a more positive one, increasing the likelihood of them returning to your website in the future.

Typeface can make or break a website. Sure, the playful, calligraphic fonts are fun to look at, but they’re not very easy to read.

Instead, choose from a popular font family such as Helvetica, Calibri, or Arial, to make sure users can easily read the on-page text.

Headlines

Consider the last time you looked at a website. Did you read every single word on the page or did you scan for text that was bigger and bolder?

You may not have realized it, but you subconsciously scanned for headlines as soon as you landed on the page. 

As such, it’s important to make sure that headlines stand out on a website.

Web designers can quickly convey to a visitor that they are looking at news articles by having the “News” subheadings displayed with bolder and larger typefaces than the rest of its content.

These article headlines would then draw the visitor’s eye to the smaller blurb paragraphs below them, prompting them to read further.

Proper headlines can help direct users exactly where you want them to go.

Evoke Emotion

Another reason why typography is important in web design is that it can help evoke specific emotions and mindsets within the visitor.

Just like the previous news website example, the larger size of the headlines among the other text immediately grabs the viewer’s attention and establishes a sense of urgency, as well as a desire to know more. As such, they stay on the website for longer as they satisfy their curiosity through reading the articles in full. 

In the case of an eCommerce store however, typography serves a different purpose. 

Though you want to provide sufficient information in the product description, a more effective use of typography in eCommerce is a minimal use of text, combined with attractive brand & product photos. 

The minimal amount of reading they have to do also ensures that they can find and spot the specific product or product line they’re looking for.

Spacing

Just as headlines drag your attention to a certain spot on the page, the use of white space often helps make larger volumes of content easier to read.

Reading large volumes of text, especially from a computer monitor or smartphone screen, can easily cause eye strain and eye fatigue. This can make it difficult for a website, especially one that conveys information through large blocks of text, to retain visitors.

However, a text-heavy website can avoid tiring out its visitors and encourage long periods of enjoyable binge, simply by breaking up the content with white space. 

If you’ve been paying attention, that’s what we’ve been doing in this blog.

It’s easy to overlook typography when it comes to building and designing a website.

However, to do so is to risk making your website look confusing or difficult to engage with, which can drive off its potential visitors and users.

Recognise how good typography can shape the perception of your website and take to heart its importance in web design for the reasons listed above, and you’ll see why this fine art is still essential even today.

 

Posted in Graphic Design

Graphic Design Services: Do You Need It?

top down view of a laptop on a desk

Graphic design touches every part of our lives—from billboards, we see on the way to work, to the apps we use every day. As a business owner, you might wonder why you should hire a graphic designer when Jenny in accounts is pretty good on Microsoft Word? Graphic design software has improved a lot over the years, but the core of good graphic design always comes back to creativity and experience. 

A company that specialises in web and graphic design services will bring a level of professionalism to your company website that would be hard to achieve in-house. Just as you’d hire an electrician to install new lighting in your office, a graphic design agency will provide fast and appropriate design solutions for your business. 

Some small business owners opt for online design sites like Fiverr or Upwork to get their logo and graphic design services work done. While this might suit a simple, one-off project, there are risks to this approach:

  1. The original designer may no longer be available when you need to revisit the design.
  2. The design work is carried out by individuals working off-shore, who may not be familiar with the nuances of your business and it’s culture.
  3. The low fee/high turnover approach of these design sites promotes expediency over creativity.

Your company needs to present a unified look to the world—your website, social media, print media, advertising, and branding all need to communicate a consistent message. Just like the physical assets in your business, your company’s visual assets need to be effective, fit for purpose and well maintained. A graphic design service can help you identify and formalise these assets, right down to the font used in your byline.

When you first meet with a web/graphic design company, their goal will be to learn as much as they can about your business. For many business owners, this process can be quite enlightening, as you reflect on the nature of the work you do, your customers, even your competitors. As an independent consultant, the designer you meet with can offer insight into your business that might not be obvious to you. The web design process can often uncover inefficiencies in the company structure that only become obvious when developing or updating the company’s website.

So the answer is yes, you do need a professional graphic design service—but how do you choose one? Design plays a part in every part of your business: logo, website, print media, smartphone app, so it pays to choose a company with capabilities in all those areas. Using separate design services means more workload for you, and it increases the possibility of errors through miscommunication or mis-matched deadlines.

Activate Design is a Christchurch based design house offering a full suite of design services, including websites, logos, apps, videos, and print. Alongside these design services, Activate Design provide essential services like web hosting, SEO, content writing, email marketing, and tech support.

If you’d like to know more, check out our work or request a quote.

 

Posted in Graphic Design

Look for these things in an SEO company

There are many companies out there that offer SEO (Search Engine Optimisation), so many in fact, that the market is flooded with them. The blanket email spam sent out from these companies can become very frustrating, believe me - I know. For myself, I get multiple emails every single day from companies and individuals both in New Zealand and overseas (mainly India) offering SEO services for our Activate Design website.

Many of these emails start with: “I have viewed your website and believe I can improve your rankings by the following methods...” Another may say: “I have conducted a thorough analysis of your site and believe we can give you #1 rankings by …”

white hat seo

My first issue here is that if indeed these companies had actually viewed our website as they say they have, they would have seen that we ourselves offer a full SEO service. We also offer mobile sites, responsive websites, full website design, development and more. What I mean to say is; there’s no use offering window cleaning to a window cleaner right?

So I must conclude that these emails are spam being sent out without any real research having been done.

My second issue is are these companies using good "white hat" SEO techniques, or aggressive "black hat" techniques that rarely obey search engine guidelines and put your website at risk.

Is there any way to tell? My advice would simply be to use a well-reputed provider of SEO. A good bet would be a company such as ourselves who don't solely offer SEO but specialise in a host of other website related services.

My other advice would be to choose an SEO specialist in your country, that way if something goes wrong you know you can reach them easily to discuss and are not limited by electronic communication and time differences.

THE QUESTION YOU NEED TO ASK FIRST IS: CAN I TRUST SEO SERVICES FROM AN UNKNOWN COMPANY?

As a recent example, we were contacted by one of our Clients who had been intrigued by an offer of SEO that seemed too good to be true, yet also seemed quite legitimate. Black Hat SEO TechniquesThis initial email offer outlined a lot of points that appealed to our Client and the third party company seemed to know their stuff. Our Client had then spoken with this unknown company, (a wise step), although the company was not based in New Zealand, and decided to proceed with the service.

When they contacted us it was to forward an email requesting top-level access to their website to be passed on to the third party company. Our client had been informed that code would be added to their to site increase rankings. Without knowledge of SEO techniques themselves, our Client would have no idea what was being added to their site, and what could be hidden in the code that they would never find out about.

AT THIS POINT IT NEEDS TO BE CONSIDERED: HOW MUCH ACCESS TO MY WEBSITE SHOULD I GIVE A THIRD PARTY COMPANY? HOW MUCH ACCESS TO MY WEBSITE SHOULD AN SEO PROVIDER NEED?

The answer, in fact, is none. If you do decide to take a risk on an unknown search engine optimisation company either based in New Zealand or overseas, they should not need access to the background workings of your website if it is just some code they are adding to your site. As we suggested to our Client, they would be wise to have us check and add the code into their website for them, ensuring it is 100% legitimate and that their website, which is such a large marketing investment, is kept safe.

In this particular case, once our client contacted the company to inform them to send the code to be added independently, they never heard from that company again. Rather suspicious don’t you think? That code could have contained any number of things from links to other sites or improper and outdated SEO practices that would have had a detrimental effect on rankings.

YOU NEED TO KNOW: WHAT ARE THE DANGERS OF USING AN OUTSIDE COMPANY FOR SEO?

There are many, and I’m not scaremongering here - I genuinely believe that a website is such an asset that we are more than happy to ensure it's continued security. After all, we take pride in our websites and want to ensure the optimum effectiveness of the websites we create for every business, individual or organisation.

The dangers you face of using an unknown SEO company are that your website could be made vulnerable, hacked, deleted, or simply undermined. What I mean by undermined is that there are many, many methods of SEO to increase your rankings, and the effectiveness of these methods changes constantly. SEO techniques change as search engines get smarter, for example, Meta tags were once extremely effective but are rarely used anymore.

An HTML Meta Tag is a form of data tag that is not visible on the site itself, yet still communicates to search engines about your web page. Meta tags were popularly used to convey information like page title, description and keywords. What occurred to change this was that dishonest websites were adding keywords to their meta tags that did not in any way relate to their website content, effectively luring people into their website through dishonest means. Thankfully, search engine technology is constantly evolving and once it was determined that Meta tags could be manipulated to gain undeserved rankings this technique became less used if not completely redundant. A good SEO company/provider must be constantly updating his or her skills using "white hat" techniques to stay ahead of trends and avoid penalisation for using outdated techniques.

FIRST CONSIDER: WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY WEBSITE IS COMPROMISED DUE TO SEO SERVICES FROM AN ILLEGITIMATE PROVIDER?

What should I do if an SEO provider damages my rankings or results in my site being banned through "black hat" SEO techniques?

If your site does not improve in rankings or actually goes down in rankings, there may be things we can undo to reverse the downward spiral and restore your website’s integrity. Contact us immediately!

If your website is banned from Search Engines, which happens more than you realise, we can re-create your website, making it much improved and more effective by employing good SEO techniques right from the start.

We work with SEO specialists who keep up to date with all the latest SEO techniques and developments to ensure any SEO results in a growth in rankings, not penalisation of rankings due to dishonest or outdated practices.

WHAT SHOULD I DO IF MY WEBSITE IS HACKED OR DELETED?

Give us a call. If you have one of our websites then unless you have given someone access to your website background, your site will be very secure. Our CMS (content management system) is unique in that it has been developed by us. Most websites that are hacked are created in open-source Content Management Systems, such as Wordpress and Magento. Open-source cms are available for anyone to use, so, unfortunately, there are more people working on ways to compromise them.

If your website has been compromised then in most cases we can repair it for you and get it working again with minimum downtime. If your website has been created in an open-source CMS we have a lot of experience with a range of issues that can occur, and on several occasions when the corruption is too wide-spread, we have re-created complete websites in our more secure CMS.

I think it’s important to note that with our CMS you can still host the site where you like. We do not lock you into hosting with us as some other companies do. Having freedom of choice is for your simple peace of mind.

Our unique CMS was created in response to the fact that most CMS available were created for programmers to use, not people (not that er, programmers aren’t people…). So our CMS is very, very simple and straightforward to use, giving you greater control over your content and images, and allowing you to add, hide or remove pages, add links and much more.

So if you’re thinking of SEO services to improve website rankings, or if you have concerns about the ongoing security of your website - do feel welcome to contact our team at Activate Design. We have designers, developers, service support technicians, and just friendly helpful people like myself here to assist you whenever needed.

 

Posted in Graphic Design

Top Trending Website Design Inspirations

As professional web designers and developers, you’re visiting probably well over a thousand websites a month in order to stay up to date with trendy design and to generate ideas for your own projects. With the design landscape changing so frequently and fast, how do we stay current, and more importantly, how do we stay motivated to create the best websites possible? Better yet, how do we find the time?!

Web design is the so hot right now and the web is constantly expanding, growing and flourishing. This is due to the fact that people are genuinely interested in getting involved with the development of the web. And this makes us…happy. That’s right, we’re happy that the web is growing and evolving at a rapid rate because it means that we’re Responsive Website Designconstantly seeing new design trends. We’re hoping that this will eventually result in a web that is based solely on excellent design rather than just function or purpose. The revolution may not happen yet, but we believe it’s in the works…

We’re been trawling the web looking for the most inspiring design trends so you won’t have to! Have a look, take some notes and get ready to revamp your web design style!

  1. Keep on Scrolling: When you combine storytelling with user experience it often gets you a long page narrative. Websites will keep on experimenting with this more and more in the future. Clicking is so early 2000. This new scrolling is called long scrolling and it means is that all of your website’s pages can be viewed by vertically scrolling up or down. Boom. Easy. People have less and less time these days and getting lost navigating your pages is the last thing they want to do. One page websites are the new things. Keep an eye out for parallax scrolling too, which is a special scrolling technique where the background images move by the camera slower than foreground images, thus creating an illusion of depth and adding to the immersion experience.
  2. Make it Personal: People don’t want their only reactions to be with machines. Writing personal content is the best way to make your customers trust you. Good content is the only way for you to connect with your online audience, so write it like a human would, not a Cyborg. It’s no big secret that people perceive and process information easier when it’s delivered with graphic aids. Big content blocks are also great both for responsive web design and storytelling. The blocks focus readers’ attention on one statement at a time and become even more powerful when combined with bold web fonts, lots of whitespace, separated with colours, and matched with strong images.
  3. Responsive Design!: This web design approach is aimed at crafting sites to provide an optimal viewing experience for customers. The easy reading, navigation, panning, and scrolling across a wide range of devices like mobile phones to desktop computer monitors is quickly becoming the standard for business, and if you don’t comply, your Google ranking is going to suffer. Responsive design makes set website design look archaic.  Get on board if you want to stay up to date.
  4. Simple Design!: Simple design is a misnomer. It’s not implying that it’s easy to do, but rather it refers to the use of the best practices so site visitors get what they need without complication. Simple design embraces powerful images and meaningful content. It showcases purposeful navigation. Remember that ol’ saying: Keep It Simple, Stupid. This applies to the following:
  • Simple Animations: The one other trend that has taken off after the release of iOS7 is the use of simple animations. These are subtle animations that give affordance and personality to the design that you see on websites and apps. You can see it in gestures, for example when you move up and down the chat bubbles in Messages where the bubbles bump against one another.
  • Simple Colours: Over the last year, bold and bright colours have been making a name for themselves but light and subtle colour combinations are on trend now.

Psst…Pantone colours to watch out for:

Placid Blue: This is the ultimate light blue pastel shade. Associated with peace and serenity, this dreamy blue goes well with any pastel shades and classic bolds.

Violet Tulip: If you haven’t guessed by the name, this is a lavender shade. It’s a very romantic and vintage hue that pairs well with bolds.

Hemlock: This is a light green, almost pistachio, with a hint of the orient. It differs much from the trendy mint and emerald hues with its tenderness. All three of these shades perfectly combine with each other and with brighter colours.

  1. Tell Me a Story: Storytelling Design is similar to writing good content but I want to take it further. Storytelling design tells a story through concise, compelling copy coupled with strong imagery as users scroll down the page. It’s the best way companies can get their customers to connect with them. You’re telling a brand story now! You’re not just creating a website that brags how great your services are. The marketplace is saturated with businesses just like yours. But your story can make you stand out. So tell it well.
  2. Hey Flatty: Flat UI is a mix of fun and smooth colours, combined with complete and total simplicity, which brings websites and web applications to life. Giants like Apple and Microsoft are getting on board, so it’s time for you to embrace it too. Flat design focuses on simplicity and clarity and helps websites get rid of their excess clutter. Users can then focus on the content and overall the user experience becomes more enjoyable. Flat UI just going to keep growing so take the time to study it.
  3. Video Killed the Radio Star: There are only so many great copy writers out there and you don’t want your customers reading all day. Change things up by creating videos that get your message across. You can get creative and even cheeky with video. The right videos can go viral, so it’s worth considering if you’re looking for potential word of mouth advertising. Video content is becoming easier and cheaper to produce and crisp HD photos can easily make your website look professional, attractive while getting your message across. We’re social animals and there’s no better tool than a good video for storytelling. Videos can stir our emotions and create a closer connection better than just well written text. Watching a video can entice your users to linger longer on your page, thus allowing them to get to know your brand better.
  4. Don’t Believe the Type: Make a name for your brand with personalised fonts. Fonts have evolved in the last few years, with services like Google Fonts offering hundreds of free fonts to choose from. There is a definite potential to create something more memorable with branded fonts to get your message across. The websites using these fonts say that they’re independent, trailblazing and downright sassy.  It’s a strong message that works. In addition to this, big chunky font is trending.
  5. Take a Ride: Fixed Navigation is the new way to go. Websites that integrate social media, search and even purchase options within their fixed ‘navbars’ make the user experience more accessible and continuous. We’ll be seeing plenty of changes in this area in the years to come. The main purpose of the fixed technique is to keep the navigation bar constantly visible for the users as they scroll down which makes it easier for them and makes the experience more enjoyable.  Stripped-down navigation is a trend that looks set to grow in popularity and we’re going to see a lot more focus on icons, roll-downs, and navigation that shrinks as you start to scroll down the page.
  6. Blurred Lines: Since the release of iOS 7 last summer, designers have been using blurred backgrounds as a source of inspiration like crazy. You essentially overlay interfaces, creating a “shower door” type look with these multiple blurred backgrounds. It actually creates pretty attractive nonlinear gradients which can make your website stand out.

And there you have it, some of the best trends coming your way in 2014. Just remember that a decent design should serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. The best design comes from designing for the user’s needs by applying best practices. Don’t follow trends for the sake of it – if you don’t like a certain trend then use a different technique that suits your style.

Now, if we could just a drumroll so we can say a proper goodbye to the following trends that have assaulted our eyes for too long…

  • Overused stock photos
  • Auto-play videos and music
  • Automated popups
  • Advertising sidebars
  • Inane blog posts
  • Loading and Reloading pages
  • Modal windows with hidden or tiny close commands
  • Small, impossible to read font sizes
  • Long shadows: why?! WHY?!!
  • Hipster icons and logos

Goodbye and good riddance!

Posted in Website Design, Graphic Design, Web Design Trends

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