Sample Discussion and Applications from Principles of Web Design

Chapter 1. Understanding the Web: A Designer's View
Consider that the term "page" was chosen as the term for a unit of content on the Web. Do you see problems with this choice? What alternative terms, including the possibility of neologisms (newly invented terms), can you think of?

Chapter 4 Using Content Types Effectively
Find two Web sites not devoted to music in which sound is used effectively. Explain.

Chapter 5 Societal Implications and Ethical Choices
A Seniors Citizens' residence has recently acquired a computer with Internet access so that residents can use email (especially to communicate with their children and grandchildren) and surf the Web. The computer is located on a table in the main lounge and is quite popular. Several residents however, have observed other residents viewing pornographic Web sites and want this practice stopped. This issue is on the agenda for the next management meeting. Or, you are assistant manager of the facility. You are also the facility's system administrator and the designer of the facility's own Web site. Because of your expertise and professional responsibility, you will be expected to take a leadership role at the meeting. What information will you gather to prepare yourself for the meeting? What is your overall viewpoint on this issue?

Chapter 8 The Navigational Interface
Compare the identity information on a sampling of Web pages on two different Web sites. What are the differences? Which design ideas are effective or ineffective in introducing the Web site and lending coherence to the user's experience as the user navigates the site?

Chapter 11 Graphic Design
Visit www.websitesthatsuck.com or another Web site that calls attention to bad design on the Web. Examine some of the featured Web sites and, when available, the criticism that is offered. Do you agree with the criticism? To what degree do the shortcomings of these Web sites pertain to graphic design? What other kinds of shortcomings are present?

Chapter 13 Non-Hierarchal Information Structures
Examine several of the Web sites available for perusal on the Second Story Web site or a comparable Web design company. Diagram the node-link structure of one of these Web sites. The diagram does\does not need to be complete; it just needs to suggest the overall information structure. Briefly evaluate this Web site.