Web Layout - Don't Forget the Basics!

One of the commonly overlooked aspects of web design is the basics of web layout. Web designers become engrossed with other web layout elements like frames and table while disregarding the basics. The basics of web layout are just so simple. Perhaps this is the reason why they are overlooked – others may think a web layout can still be good without them.

These basic web layout elements must still be given considerable attention as they will also affect the overall success of your web design. No matter how simple they are, they will bring positive effects. The elements mentioned here are text width, space, images and graphics.

Element of Text Width

Text width is also referred to as the scan length. It refers to the number of words that constitute a single line. With regards to text width, you must consider the number of words an ordinary online user will be able to read without annoyance and boredom.

Cut your text width according to the normal count of words your visitors can read; otherwise, visitors won’t read your content. Achieving short text width in your web layout is important to ensure that your texts/content will be readable instead of being boring.

In reference to text width, it is not advisable to center the texts. Centering text was common to web layout before, but it appears that centered texts are often hard to read. So as much as possible, avoid centering text in your layout.

Element of Images/Graphics

If you are using images on your layout, consider aligning them. In doing so, you are actually making the images and graphics as parts of the layout. Aligned images look more attractive than images scattered everywhere on the page.

You should also consider balance in the use of images and graphics. There must be balance between the images and the texts. A page loaded with images and graphics may be hard to read, so as much as possible, aim to achieve balance.

Element of Space

In designing a layout, consider the space. Use relatively sized layout portions of the web page. This is to ensure that your page fits the browser’s window. Connected to space is the screen resolution.

You can always use color to highlight or define a space. If you aim to give a page a particular width, you can do this by changing the color of its background. The background color should be different from the page itself. And always put the page on the center of the browser screen.

These elements may have been ignored but I tell you, these can make a big difference on your web layout. Consider these and see the difference!

Web layout is essential to ensure that you come with a well designed site. Don’t know how to achieve effective web design? We can help you, please see our Web Design Service or apply for a free Website Analysis.