MyNewCreature

Key concepts

Contrast. Elements that aren’t the same should be very different so they stand out, making them “slightly different” confuses the user into seeing a relation that doesn’t exist. Strong contrast between page elements allows the user’s eye to flow from one to another down the page instead of creating a sea of similarity that’s boring and not communicative (Rundle, 2006).

Repetition. Repeat styles down the page for a cohesive feel — if you style related elements the same way in one area, continue that trend for other areas for consistency(Rundle, 2006).

Alignment. Everything on the page needs to be visually connected to something else, nothing should be out of place or distinct from all other design elements (Rundle, 2006).

Proximity. Proximity creates related meaning: elements that are related should be grouped together, whereas separate design elements should have enough space in between to communicate they are different (Rundle, 2006).

 Connections to example: why is our website CRAP?

Contrast is done by using shades of brown and color of blue which creates attention, differentiated elements, directs attention around the page. Important things are big in comparison to less important ones which are smaller. There is a contrast between background and text.

Repetition is used to create organization. Features that are repeated are colors, layout, navigation. It is applicable across the whole website which makes website distinct, memorable, and easy to use.

Alignment gives to the page a fresh look, organizes, and provides invisible lines which help drawing attention. All the features of the page are well balanced.

Proximity allows to group related elements together such as homework, contributors, etc. Website has enough distance between different objects and reduced space between related objects.

Relation to the course outcomes

It is very important to be able to spread message effectively. In the class we are taught how to do it. One the ways is to create website that catches attention of the audience. If the website is done well according to CRAP principles it is most likely that audience will be interested at looking at the website. Therefore, as students we have chance to learn the design rools and apply them on practice.

References:

Rundle, M. (2006, 04 10). How C.R.A.P is Your   Site Design? Retrieved 09 24, 2012, from treehouseblog:  Web

TISMWebDev. (2010, 05 31). Design Principles:   Contrast, Repetition, Alignment, Proximity. Retrieved 09 24, 2012, from  Web

Ward, S. (2007, 08 24). Is Your Web Design CRAP?   Retrieved 09 24, 2012, from Pingable:  Web

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