It seems that I am constantly preparing course materials (see my last posting The State of Web Design)I was going through the heap of reference and lesson materials (well nowadays we are talking about heaps of digital files too!) in order to prepare for an amazing series of classes that I will be giving through OUjobs.com. I will be focusing on the Foundations of Design for Graphic Design and Web Design.
It is interesting, since I am a very strong believer (and it has been proven) that Graphic Design is not Web Design. It is important for Designers to realize that and design accordingly for each. During these classes I will focus on where it overlaps and also discuss some things that are unique just for Web Design.
If I had to pick one idea that will automatically elevate your designs, it would be proper usage of alignment (or any sort of alignment for that matter). This automatically causes a designer to give some thought into their design. It organized the information and makes your designs look clear and easy to navigate (pun intended, especially towards Web Design)
What are some examples of alignment? I purposely picked examples that are very basic and boring, but you can see with just a bit of alignment any design can be elevated.
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After:
How about this logo?
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After:
Let me give you a parable that will illustrate the concept: You are new to a foreign city and are looking for the local pizza shop. You take out a map and try to follow it to get to your destination, however the street system in this city is a series of side streets each branching out from one another, some intersect etc. You get all confused, give up and decide to stay at your hotel and order room service. Imagine though if you are in a city (like Brooklyn, New York) where the streets follow a grid, there are streets and avenues that run parallel to one another. You take out your map and easily find your destination. That delicious slice of Brooklyn pizza is your reward. Imagine accomplishing that with your designs daily. By guiding your reader, or viewer through your designs because there is alignment, you will get a reward: More customers that will get motivated to purchase the product or service marketed through your design!
Stay tuned for the next installment of this Design Fundamentals series!
