The "F" Word

Well, I would like to discuss the "F" word, but it may not be the same word that is coming to mind. The word I would like to discuss today is function. Regardless of the type of design you currently have on your site (or the type of design you wish to have on your site) you have to ask yourself one thing... what is its function?

Function is the number one purpose of any site. Are you there to sell, share information, provide a service? Your key function should help to support what ever sales and marketing efforts you want to accomplish. As a business, it may come down to the function of each page on your website. Each individual page can offer a new service or function that all combined together provides a great environment for the consumer.

Function can dictate your design and how it is perceived by the consumer. Along with the many do's and don'ts we have covered in this blog, there are countless other tools and tricks of the trade that can be explored. A designer (regardless of his or her level of experience) should understand and execute basic design needs based on your company's function.

The K.I.S.S. Philosphy

Signs of a bad site... Now many times in your life have you heard people refer to the "KISS" philosophy. To be honest, I have heard it more times than I care to admit. KISS is an acronym for the once very popular saying "keep it simple stupid" and yes, I understand how weird that statement is.

Back in the "olden days" this expression emerged and although society has gravitated towards "OMG" and "LOL" you will still hear the term KISS from time to time. Why do I bring it up you ask? Good question... KISS is outdated, but is still relevant for some designers that choose to take their site over the top. Excess links, images, colors schemes, and poor layout options can transform a good site to a bad site in a matter of minutes.

Feel free to use other acronyms to explain bad design, but for now I am going to stick to one that has stood the test of time. KISS and build those websites with purpose and thought. The simple route is often the best route to take. That is, if you want to take advice from someone that still uses outdated acronyms. Just saying! :)

QR Codes

Alright, back to QR codes. First of all I think they are genius. Download an app, scan the code, and be transported to cyberspace. Originally many brands were simply using QR codes to drive you to their websites, but today those handy codes can take you to great deals, coupons, or interactive pages within a site. Comic Con is filled with QR codes. They are on posters, books, wristbands, temporary tattoos, and just about everywhere you can imagine.

QR codes are a great invention, but they are only as great as the site they take you to. Poor website design and other website flaws can ruin any and all benefits of the code. You may be able to get a consumer to scan it, but if the site you are promoting is horrible, why bother? Over the year we have covered a wide range of "bad elements" in the world of website design. Take note!

Before you jump to add QR codes to your promotional products you have to ask yourself if your website is the best it can be. And, answer that truthfully! Why promote a site that give your visitors a bad impression of you and your brand?