Every web design project requires a fitting concept. However, not all web designers take time to brainstorm a concept, particularly if there is a deadline to beat. In this article, we explore effective ways of choosing concepts and try to understand how designers generate ideas. Hopefully, we come into a better understanding of websites and having a good design concept.
Concept Development in Web Design
As expressed in this work, The Gestalt Principle: Design Theory for Web Designers, designers need to start with a shell design prior before going into detail.
The shell design methodology is not as complicated as it seems. It basic advocacy is to build concepts around containing shapes instead of putting all your energy into attractive but meaningless shapes. The worst-case scenario is when designers copy or mimic frameworks, enhance a few elements and pass it off as a new website without further thought.
Original designs, as opposed to improved templates, add meaning and purpose to web design projects.
What makes a great design is a story behind - much more than filters, eye-catching colours, typography and pretty shapes. Each element on the website should have a meaning behind it and not just slapped there to complete a design.
Concept-based web designs can be a challenge, though, but patience is key.
Research & Referencing
To build upon your ideas and work out a container shape or style that matches well with your design, collect images from a design catalogue or images relevant to the project.
A good heuristic would be to search for keywords related to your client's business. Or you could ask existing clients to describe their feelings about the old website. Does the website look fresh? Does it give off a calm atmosphere? Use these keywords when researching images online.
Mull over your collection of images before choosing the ones you believe will go well with the new website.
Brainstorming is a Prerequisite
Great web designers are open to ideas. They are not dismissive of them. This is all part of the brainstorming process.
Between enhancing the design and toning it down, it is usually much easier to do the latter. Designers may find it helpful to try sketching out their ideas instead. Using their collection of images as reference, they can try drawing out new images beyond the ones they gathered.
You may also want to pay attention to the colours present in those images. Which colour schemes represent words like "fresh" or "youthful"? Some designers may automatically think of green and yellow shades and employ these colours when designing a website meant for a younger audience.
Final Thoughts
Concept-based web designs are fail-proof. Not only does it give your website more meaning, but it ensures that your overall design represents your business and what you stand for in your chosen field.
Welcome ideas and brainstorm as much as you can during the design process. A designer's job is to create or improve a website that can bridge the gap between companies/individuals and their target audiences. If you're able to do just that, then you’ve done well.
Looking for a professional web design company in Australia? Call +61 2 8488 0932.
Helpful Resources:
(1) Easy To Follow Web Design Tricks (2) How To Improve User Search Experience For Your E-Commerce Website (3) Why It’s Important To Work With A Professional Web Design Company
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