New Frontiers in Web Navigation
Admittedly, web design has come a long way since the likes of this in the early 90s. But have we become complacent in our craft? Many sites rely on the standard layout: 1 large piece of real estate, 3 small badges and either left or top-navigation. Now don’t get me wrong – websites are designed with their users in mind. And clearly this layout has its merits:
- offers a simple and easily-navigable user interface
- allows the designer to clearly translate communication priorities
- appeals to the least tech-savvy among us
But where’s the flair? We work with one of the most dynamic and exciting mediums – combining the best of TV, print, radio and outdoor into one neat little package. We have the ability to offer incredible and memorable user experiences. And the sites below have done just that.
Now I can already hear the shrill voices of SEO experts everywhere telling me that Flash sites aren’t search engine friendly. I’m aware of this. But if you can find a way to drive traffic, by all means go out on a limb and create something amazing.
Filippa Smedhagen
This stunning portfolio site mirrors the action of flipping the page in a fashion magazine. The clean design ensures zero distraction, leaving the user with only one thing on which to focus – the gorgeous photographs.
d’strict
I would expect nothing less of an agency that specializes in interaction design. Users navigate by dragging a window over the area of the page they wish to enlarge and voila. Now I don’t speak a word of Korean, but I’m sure the content is every bit as lovely as its package.
SectionSeven
This site loses points for its agonizingly slow load time (thanks Rogers Ultra Lite service) and inability to zoom in on individual pieces. But it’s paint swatch inspired design does a beautiful job at showcasing the breadth of each campaign or collection. And the rollovers provide the necessary context and background. Most importantly, it’s fun to play with which only leads to further exploration.
Filed under: marketing | 1 Comment
Tags: Flash, navigation, portfolio, web design
I have called in on this location on many an instance now but this post is the 1st one that I have ever commented on.
Congratulations on such a first-rate critique and site. I have found it to be very helpful and educational – I only wish that there were more blogs online like this one.
I never disappear from this blog without learning anything, from time to time I may feel a tiny bit saddened that I may not agree with a blog article or comeback that has been made. But hey! that is existence and if every one decided to agree on the same thing what a boring old world we would exist in.
Please maintain your admirable work.
Having said all of this, and if I’m kindly allowed to continue with my entries I will come again to post on your blog site soon
Cheers, have a great day and thank you.