Subject:
Visual Communication
Designing a Visual Presentation for Your
Users
“Visual design serves a purpose greater than
decoration; it is an important tool for effective communication. The
organization of information on the screen can make the difference between a
message users understand and one that leaves users feeling puzzled or
overwhelmed.”
(Microsoft Design Specifications and Guidelines - Visual
Design)
“Establish a visual hierarchy. The primary task of
graphic design is to create a strong, consistent visual hierarchy, where
important elements are emphasized, and content is organized logically and
predictably.”
(Yale C/AIM Web Style Manual)
Visual Communication
In its
MSDN Online Library, Microsoft provides many books that explain software
development concepts. Design specifications and guidelines feature tips on
screen layout, and include the
following topics:
----hierarchy of information
----focus and emphasis
----structure
and balance
----relationship of elements
----readability and flow
----unity of integration
This extensive article presents a logical approach to screen design that helps
you stay focused on the user’s task.
Visual Communication
http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/books/winguide/ch14b.htm
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Reference Materials
Graphic Design 101
The Yale C/AIM Web Style Manual uses graphics to explain how a user develops a
first impression of your page design.
Visual Hierarchy
http://www.webstyleguide.com/page/hierarchy.html
--------------------------------------------------
Balanced Pages
This second article from the Yale C/AIM Web Style
Manual provides page structure and consistency tips that apply to both web page
and application screen design.
Consistency
http://www.webstyleguide.com/page/consistent.html
