Kara Smolke Communication 350

A little bit about me

Hello everyone! My name is Kara Smolke I am a Communication major and am hoping to graduate by the end of summer 2012. I have no idea what my future will bring but I am hoping to find a job within the radio industry. I see this class being a challenge for myself but I am excited to learn new aspects of Communication technology. I have a twin sister who also goes to Western. I am outgoing and love meeting new people!

10 Rules about Web Design

1.) Your web pages should be easy to read: I know that there is nothing more frusterating then going to a web page and you feel like you are not able to read the content. Crazy, tiny, and fonts that are too fancy can be difficult to read. Simple is better. (Axandra)

2.) Your web page titles are explanatory: Being able to know what you are about to read is helpful. I have been on websites where the titles or sub headings do not explain what I am about to read. (Axandra)

3.) The contents on your web page should be clearly arranged: Clutter is not fun to deal with. I like to be able to go to a website and be able clearly understand why words and photos are placed on the web page. (Axandra)

4.) Make use of full browser window: Just as we have talked about in class it is always good to use the full web page. I have seen web pages that do not use the full space and I feel like it does not like professional and less credible. (Ten Rules of Web Design)

5.) Check the site for errors: I have seen sites that have spelling errors and problems with links. I usually then do not use the website because it is not credible in my eyes. (Ten Rules of Web Design)

6.) Consistency is key: I believe that this is true for anything that is written. If writing is not consistent then it is really unpleasant to read. (Ten Rules of Web Design)

7.) Design is paramount: Websites that are appealing to look at when you are looking at it for even the first five seconds is postive for your audience. It will attract them to want to look further into the website. (Ten Rules of Web Design)

8.) The URL on the web page is meaningful: As we have talked about in class it makes more sense for your URL to match the content that is on the web page. As mentioned before clarity is essential. (Axandra)

9.) Color is critical: Personally I like to choose the color black when using fonts and in the background nothing too flashy that will take away from the content on your page. Like stated in number one simple can be better. (Ten Rules of Web Design)

10.) Navigation should be intuitive: Relating to clarity it is always good when you are able to find what you are looking for. (Ten Rules of Web Design)

"Website Design Tips For Professional Sites" IBD HOST. March 2009. http://www.axandra.com/
"10 Rules of Web Site Design." Sharpened Productions. 2011. http://www.sharpened.com/web/about/rules.html