There is an old adage that states simpler is better.
Voice of San Diego seems to understand that pretty well with the design of its Web site. It absolutely nails the simplicity of the Web site and fares more than adequately in unity, harmony, and proximity, all crucial elements for a well designed Web site.
The main page is a three column set up that places the biggest stories on the left side, which is known to grab the reader’s eye first. On the top part of the page there is a toolbar that has different subject topics that are popular amongst readers, which sticks out in a positive way. The main page kind of reminds me of The New York Times Web site except with much more color and life.
Additionally on the front page is the utilization of specific colors and fonts for certain things. Headlines are all in blue font with certain stories having larger font size than others. It works pretty well and flows fairly nicely from left to right.
Also there is the “This Just In” on the side of the page that has breaking San Diego stories. With a background color of pink it doesn’t necessarily stick out but it’s a nice place to put continually updated information and not have it take too much focus away from the main stories.
The layout of the Web site isn’t earth shattering but it gets the job done and is easy to follow. They correct match photos with stories and keep the same layout through the majority of their stories. Additionally each blog has the same similar setup and it works really well.
April 10, 2010 at 1:48 pm |
John, I agree with you about the simplicity in the Voice of San Diego’s Web site. There’s nothing amazing about it, but it’s clean, appealing and predictable, all of which facilitate readers’ use of the site and keep them coming back.
April 11, 2010 at 8:39 am |
I agree that the website isn’t anything special but it serves its purpose. There are a couple of minor things about the site that bug me, but because of its simplicity it all seems to work.
April 11, 2010 at 10:23 pm |
Interesting post. Though the Web site serves it purpose, it seems as if the VOSD have done the bare minimum on their Web site. Its simplicity is a bit too much and they could definitely start with using more color to make it a little bit more appealing.