WSTF: Using Graphics in Web Design #2

Here is the action item regarding use of graphics/aesthetic design 
reformatted from the email submitted 5/9. We have multiple 
definitions of the word graphics going on so I hope this outline 
helps to clarify that issue for our discussion. 

Generally, I think that the aesthetic design has to be addressed on a 
site first before you decide on any content graphics or you will have 
a cart before the horse issue. The aesthetic design/wrapper affects 
the entire site and the content visuals do not appear on every page.

I am willing to integrate whatever examples of content 
visuals/graphics that others would like to provide in the outline 
below. I just can't recall any from our conversation - total blank. 
Sorry In any case, here is submission #2.

Charmane
_______________________________________________________________________________


I. Purpose of Graphics
    A. Aesthetic Design/Site-Wide Wrapper (see e-mail Charmane 
Corcoran May 09, 2004 )
Aesthetic Design Sets the general look and feel of the  as a whole site
Appears on every page and wraps around/holds the content
Captures the viewer's attention and draws the user into the site
Enhance comfort level and goes beyond brand identity or simply 
including a copy of the logo
Involves design elements such as lines, outlining, picture, gradient, 
or numbers and shapes in the banner background
   B. Content Visuals/Graphics - page by page content area, inside the wrapper
Content Visuals can Extend the Ability to Communicate Concepts by 
Enhancing Comprehension and Reinforcing Content - may include charts, 
graphs, pictures, or other graphic representations.
Special Case - the Home Page
1. Introduces Special Content or connect graphically to the Site Structure
2. Special Content Graphics that may/may not appear on interior 
pages. These visuals are not part of the aesthetic design. 
3. Examples - browsers, keyboards, monitors, etc. (see e-mail Shawn 
Lawton Henry 30 Apr 2004) serving functional purpose related to 
content
II. Pros and Cons
   A. Aesthetic Design/Site-Wide Wrapper
Pros http://www.jnd.org/ED_Draft/CHO1.pdf
1. Increases usage by visitors.  
2. Increases comfort level.
3. Increases perceived comprehension.
Cons
1. If done poorly, can be distracting or uninviting.
2. If missing or lacking, site is boring and users disinclined to use.
3. If missing or lacking, comprehension and navigability is decreased.
   B. Content Visuals/Graphics
  Pros
1. Can enhance comprehension of concepts
2. Can help user understand structure or navigation
3. May increase probability that user will connect to deeper parts of the site
  Con
1. If done poorly, may confuse the user
2. If done accessibly, may prohibit access to content.
3. If too many are used or arranged poorly, may be make the user 
decide not to use the site.



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Charmane K. Corcoran
Information & Project Principal
Michigan State University
Client Advocacy Office
316A Computer Center
East Lansing MI 48824

E-mail:	corcora1@msu.edu
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