Every year there are new web design techniques and features that are brought to the table. Some only last a short period of time, while others are bound to stick around for the long haul. 2012 has been a very interesting year for web design and today we are going to discuss some of the latest trends. You may want to consider adding them to your website.
Responsive Web Design
The internet is becoming more accessible all the time and with so many new ways to use it, web designers have no choice but to come up with new ways to make everything work beautifully on every device.
In the past, the only place one could access the internet was via a computer. This made web design simple because designers only had to worry about making a site that worked well with one type of device. Today, your site is going to go much further if it is accessible on computers, cell phones, E-Readers and so much more. This is why more and more websites are being redesigned in order to fit this new mold.
Mobile Compatibility
Many people choose their cell phones to access the internet while on the go more than they do on a computer. This is why it is important to have a mobile version of your website available. If you have a product or service that may be needed on the go, be sure to consider this when creating a website.
Typography
These days, websites are all about capturing attention and creating a unique experience. This can be done through typography. Typography is a way to bring your text to life and spice up your website. These days, more and more people are using typography and it means much more interesting and visually captivating websites.
Social Media Links
It is hard to come across a website these days that does not have social media links. With social websites taking the internet by storm, it’s no wonder these links are everywhere. Not have them on your current website? It may be time to add them so your followers are able to find you throughout the web.
Infographics
The use of Infographics has been on the rise recently. They are very visually appealing and allow viewers access to the information they are looking for in a unique, colorful and organized way. Let’s face it, would you rather read a lengthy article on a topic or be able to view tables, charts and pictures mixed with text to get the picture? We would definitely vote for the latter. It’s just much more fun that way and easier to grasp a tricky concept.
Modal Boxes
The days of pop-ups are over. The days of modal boxes are here and we think they are going to be around for quite some time. Modal boxes allow you to give additional information to your viewers without causing a pop up or directing them to an entirely new page. Modal boxes simply appear above the page that is being viewed and can be easily exited. Typically these boxes are used to send an important alert or display photos on a larger scale.
Parallax Scrolling
Parallax scrolling is a unique way for users to get around your website. They may click a link and the website moves around them, bringing them to the desired location. Many sites do not offer your ‘typical’ vertical scrolling anymore, and only bring you from location to location via this new scrolling method. Sometimes, there may be a photo in the background which moves as a new pages comes into place or you may be moving to a whole new photo altogether. This makes your site feel more interactive.
Skeuomorphic Design
Skeuomorphic design is popping up all over the place these days. With these interactive features, you feel as though you are touching items in real life. Some examples are the bookshelf feature on the Kindle Fire or the ability to turn a page by clicking and dragging and actually seeing the page pass by you as if it were a physical book. These features add something special to your website, allowing users to interact like never before.
Textures and Shapes
In 2012, there has been an increase in texture uses on the internet. Just like Skeuomorphic design, this gives the internet a real-life feel about it. There has been an increase in the use of circles and ribbons as well as textures that look similar to leather or stitching that add a ‘homey’ feel.
The Possibilities Are Endless
In the past, bringing a website to life was difficult because of the amount of data it would take to do the things we are capable of doing now. With technology constantly changing, who knows what kinds of things will be possible within the next few months, or few years. There are so many amazing things in store for us!
Vadim Kirichenko is a veteran web design professional who likes to keep himself updated with latest trends.