Aug 3, 2010

Designing Websites - to convent or reinvent?




In our early youth, we learn many different things without ever being taught to us. Like for example, we learn how to turn on a T.V. , plug the it on an electrical socket, the numbered buttons of remote control are use to navigate different channels, the 2 arrow button usually to adjust the volumes and so on.




This means, that conventions enables users to figure out a lot about a device without even reading a manual or understand a word from it.

The same applies on web pages. They are very useful. As a rule, they make it easier for users to go from site to site without spending a lot of effort figuring out how things work.

However, take the fact that a lot of designers are tempted to reinvent the wheel instead. Because they think they are hired to do something new, different, and not the old thing.

Things that you should consider if your not going to use an existing convention.

  • No learning curve as possible - It must be clear and self explanatory.
  • Valuable innovation - adding a bit of learning curve is okay as long as its worth to be. You have to understand the value of what you are replacing, and estimate the value of the convention provide. Weigh them both and there you go.

Remember, Innovation is better if you have a great idea, but stick on the conventions when you don't.

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