Graphic design is not just about splashing a few colours, drawing geometrical figures etc. Though most of the websites do that, they just don't have it in them. Websites need to have that 'thought' in them, which will leave surfers impressed. There has to be a concept or a theme behind each and every part of the design. Designing is a gradual process. You cannot expect to finalise a design overnight. Right from colours, the layout, the pictures, placement of text to the final weight of the page, everything has to be taken into consideration beforehand. Here are some rules you could use while designing a website.

Rule 1: Think. Before starting off, think of a concept or a theme which is applicable and suitable to the website of which you desire to make.

Rule 2: Draw rough sketches. You need not be an expert artist. Take a piece of paper and draw what you have visualised.

Rule 3: Think of a good layout. The webpage should look balanced. Do not cram up a lot of things only in one part of the page. Spread the matter out evenly.

Rule 4: Make a first draft. Sleep over it. The next day, take a look at it again. Is it as appealing? As impressive? If yes, fantastic. If no, go back to Rule 1.

Rule 5: Do not just stick with one concept. Try out other themes too.

Rule 6: Once you are done with the paperwork, put it into practise i.e. try it out on your computer. The design should be feasible for the web programmer.

Rule 7: Try out the different designs that you have made on the computer using web programs. For graphics, Macromedia Flash (the latest hit), Corel Draw, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop are a few graphic oriented programs for the web.

Rule 8: Now you need to finalise a design which will pass the following questions: Looks good? Impressive?

Rule 9: Now for the finishing touches. Your website needs to have that finesse. That touch of class. Add a few things, probably a faded image in the background to make the look more impressive. But remember, do not make the website too heavy for loading. Nothing pisses off a surfer more than a slow loading and heavy website. (well, except p**n sites)

Rule 10: Public opinion. Ask the people around you what they think of your website. Be prepared for criticism. Learn to listen to their views and work on them. What you feel is excellent may not be as well received by others. Be prepared to work on the website. Remember, there is always room for improvisation.

Author - Amit Modak

Convonix Inc is a search engine optimization firm that offers customized SEO optimization and PPC campaign management solutions. We manage hundreds of SEO and PPC campaigns. Our clients include Web design firms, adveritising agencies, fortune 500 companies and SMEs. Other internet marketing companies can also Outsource SEO to us in India.

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