It makes me feel truly old to be able to say that I have lived through and experienced the entire evolution of the Internet; from the first room-sized computer to the proliferation of shopify stores. In truth, the foundation for the Internet began before my time when universities started to build information databases and networked them across phone lines. But I do remember the first time I was able to get an email account, chat online in the original AOL chat rooms and Instant Messenger, and of course, browse the Web.
In the early 2000’s, just after the dot-com boom and bust the term Web 2.0 came into fashion, all of a sudden websites were expected to interact with the browser in new ways. Visitors now wanted to interact with other users. Social networks became popular and then integrating social networking features into websites became a standard. Today, it’s nearly impossible to find any website that isn’t directly connected to Facebook or Twitter, allowing users to share content with their friends. It has changed the way people find and use websites, shop, find restaurants, lookup directions and basically everything else online. What could possibly be next?
The debate has already begun about what Web 3.0 will be. It will most likely involve new web technologies like HTML5 and CSS3. Regardless, there are some really neat emerging web trends that you should be aware of. I actually don’t consider them trends since they are quickly becoming standards. You be the judge. However, notice that all of the trends (or standards) listed below are supposed to add usability and value to your website. They are not meant to make your site “cooler” like with those nifty Flash intros that drive people crazy. Geez, those are so 2005. In all seriousness, these are elements that add value for the visitor and therefore, to your business.
Simple Color Schemes and Fonts
As in most of life, simple is better. A nice quiet background with simple fonts and colors can create a pleasing experience for the visitor. Using two or three colors at most and keep your fonts easy to read and consistent. Click here for a good example.
Mobile Friendly Design
Mobile web browsing has taken a huge leap forward in the past few years. With the introduction of the iPhone, Droid devices, netbooks and now iPads, people are able to connect from virtually everywhere. This means your website needs to look good at any resolution. This doesn’t mean you need to have a special “mobile-version” of your site. In fact, that’s not such a good idea anyway. More and more devices are offering users a “view original site” button that allows them to view your website as if they were on a computer. Your website just needs to be sure it is written and designed in a way that allows it to be viewable from small screen resolutions. Use icons and thumbnails to allow viewers to easily see what they are clicking on. Google has recently integrated thumbnail previews into their search results page. This makes it easier to find what you’re looking for and less likely you’ll land on a site you didn’t want.
Another issue to consider with mobile friendly design is the touch screen. Most sites are designed with the standard mouse in mind. Hover-over link effects and drop down menus just don’t translate to touch. Obviously, all of the devices mentioned above (except netbooks) use touch screens. By using icons and thumbnails as your main navigation, you’ll insure your website is usable for mice and fingers. Sandcastle Web Design came to market with a specific approach that provides the ultimate viewing experience and easy navigation with minimum panning, sizing and scrolling across broad range of devices.
Live Feeds
With the popularity of Facebook and Twitter it seems status updates are all the rage. I mean really, I do need to know what my friends and followees (doubt that’s a word) are thinking at any given time throughout the day? Adding live streaming update feeds, fresh blog articles, YouTube videos and even user comments is a great way to engage people on your front page. It insures you’re always providing new content. It’s pretty easy to do now that most social networking sites have special API’s or code to add to your site. We use this technique at structuralgraphics.com to ensure we never forget to share a new blog article (ahem) or new project videos.
QR Codes
I discussed QR Codes in depth last week, but may not have mentioned use of them on websites. They are definitely an emerging trend. If you’re not sure what QR Codes are click here.
Adding a QR Code to your website allows someone who scans it to easily access your mobile site so they can take it on the go; or, perhaps directions to your locations. You can even use it to allow users to download contact information.
So what’s next?
There are lots of emerging trends in web design and functionality that look promising. Some may never take off, while others will add real value. The objective to most of these new trends is not just to have the hip website in your industry. The real key is to make your site functional, useful and engaging for your visitors.
