Posted by Erich Beyrent on 06/30/05 15:34

v3rb0 wrote:
>>>http://smarty.daffodil.uk.com
>>>Your feedback would be appreciated

It's kind of like building a car, but the only thing you know how to do
is install the engine. There is a lot more to a car than just the
engine, and there is a lot more to a website than just the underlying
control code.

In my humble opinion, non-designers should not design websites, unless
they are willing to take the time to research design techniques and best
practices. If you're not willing to do that, you have no business
building a website that will turn people away from the product that you
are advocating.

When I design a new website, I do just that - I create several mock-up
layouts in Photoshop or GIMP. If you don't have access to these tools,
use paper and crayons - it really doesn't matter. I solicit feedback.
I tweak. When I have the design the way I want it, THEN I start coding.
If you simply can't come up with design ideas, invite the community to
submit layout ideas to you as JPEG or PNG files, and pick the one you
like the best.

You really need to have a good command over CSS. You need to have good
command over usability practices. You ought to study up on coding for
people with disabilities.

If I may suggest a good book, check out "Designing With Web Standards"
by Jeffrey Zeldman.

--
Erich Beyrent
--------------------------
http://www.beyrent.net

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