Clear and simple functionality. We demand more but we don’t want it overcomplicated. 2011 design trends will see an increase in the simple conceptual design with a splash of deep and code happy features and a much needed departure from the overuse of flash.
Captivating User Detail
Environments with users in mind, the captivating fields of plenty, interfaces that simply lead the visitor from page to page with no thought of the “back” button. Several elements come together to forge such fertile ground: Typography and adaptive color scheme, intuitive design with clear direction, easily accessible information and fast response. Simplicity, with the user in mind.
Large Typography
This trend has been growing steadily over the last several months and shows no signs of slowing. Typography is now an integral part of the overall look and message. Conscious web designers will be using larger, more exciting fonts in place of system text. Overall, designers are paying closer attention to typographic details such as leading, line height and choice of font.
Detailed Footers
The footer is larger than it’s ever been, and with good reason. Having a website footer that is full of links makes it easier for your users to navigate while at the same time improving your SEO. Creative footer layout will accompany the improved SEO function.
Online Newsroom
Every website craves the attention of Web visitors, but the average attention span is about 8 to 10 seconds. In that short time your website has to grab the attention of the visitor and if you succeed, you probably have another 2 to 3 minutes to present the relevant information to the visitor. In 2011 website designers will reward visitors with a new trend—the “editorial layout.”
Social Sharing and Shopping
Social networks are an obvious way to share content. Trends in 2011 will shift from collecting followers to interacting with followers. Content, videos, images, design will need to engage the visitor, enough to convince them to share with their friends. Visitors who stop by your website should be able to use their browser plug-ins or widgets like facebook like to easily share a good summary of your content. There are many sharing functions and services available.
Visitation Measurement
If website owners are not already paying attention to their analytics, this will be the year to do so. While you may look at your data-rich analytics report and pat yourself on your back, admiring the scores of Web visitors, this year may be the time to look at them to see what is actually working.
Simpler Aesthetics for Websites
Complex visuals are out; clean and simple is in with emphasis on typography. Simple interactive design will appeal and captivate the user’s experience. This also encourages lighter web pages, which translates to a better experience on mobile devices where Internet connectivity is lower in speed and less reliable when compared to the traditional broadband connection, and where screen sizes are too small to fit excessive design elements. This web design trend of “less is more” seems like it will extend, if not dominate, the aesthetic tastes of web designers in 2011.
Web Design Will Replace Print Design (Even More)
Companies are seeing the great opportunities and effectiveness of business networking online. Businesses are a lot more concerned about their brand’s visibility on the web. We’ll be witnessing design budgets earmarked toward traditionally print-based branding materials shift toward web design solutions.
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