Architect vs.
Decorator
By Kenn W. Kiser
Contributing Writer
Article Date: 01.30.03
Thank you for your comments on website design vs. website development.
As a graphic designer and art director for 16+ years, working for commercial printers,
advertising agencies, and my own free-lance clients, it was inevitable that website
design would become one of my responsibilities.
I quickly learned that what works with ink and paper may not always be
achievable with HTML. I also learned the importance of working closely with
web developers when designing websites. Involving them early in the design
and functionality phase of the website saves lots of time, frustration and,
in the end, money. Another advantage to the relationship is having access to
all their knowledge and experience, which often leads to some pretty cool
ideas and functions for the website.
Being an art director, I've discovered many designers are very stubborn when
it comes to collaborating with others, myself included. The idea of losing
complete control over my design was unthinkable. However, when trying to
create a successful website, you really need to leave your ego and fears at
home. A quote from Jennifer Niederst's book 'Web Design In A Nutshell'
(published by O'Reilly) said it best, "By its nature, the Web forces
designers to give up control over the very things they are traditionally
responsible for controlling, such as page size, alignment, fonts, and
colors." That comment says it all for me. Choosing fixed design over
flexible Web page design was one of my biggest stumbling blocks. I wanted to
know EXACTLY how the page would look when viewed by others, regardless of
the monitor's size and resolution. I found myself insisting a fixed pages
again and again. As a matter of fact, my current website project is the
first time I've allowed the developers to use flexible Web page design. And
quite honestly, it looks great so far.
My advice to designers responsible for creating websites is to always
include the developers from the very beginning. I am very fortunate to have
found a great company to assist me with website development. I'm sure there
are many others out there. Keep looking until you find the one that's right
for you. You won't regret it. And, of course, keep reading WebPro News!
About the Author:
Kenn W. Kiser
Newall Electronics, Inc.
1778 Dividend Drive
Columbus, OH 43228.3845
614.771.0213 tel
614.771.0219 fax
http://www.newall.com
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