User-Centered Web Design

The most effective web sites are those that can attract and keep customers by being user-friendly and easy to navigate web sites are discretionary use systems, where the user is king and can easily move elsewhere if presented with ambiguities or confusing options. Web sites MUST be designed with the user as the primary concern if they are to succeed. User Centred Web Design is an original and practical guide to designing or transforming successful interactive web sites, focussing on designing for the end-user. In a concise, readable text it presents an overview of user-centred interactive website project management and design, providing practical advice and proven methodology, as well as ideas and tips for ensuring that the final design meets the needs of both client and end-user. This book questions the usefulness and purpose behind commonly-used methods and thinking and will encourage you to develop more creative and user-centred solutions and to embrace more effective management of web design projects. Rather than focusing on technological innovations, specific software packages, or graphic content, this guide to Web design urges designers to approach their work from the perspective of the user, thus encouraging designs that are engaging and easy to use. The book offers an overview of user-centered project management, describes the techniques involved, and offers advice on meeting the needs of both the client and the end-user. A chronological format depicts every step of a project. Cato is a designer, trainer, and consultant. c. Book News Inc (Pearson Education) Offers wisdom on the interface design process, questioning the purpose and usefulness of some commonly used methods. Offers exercises that promote creativity and the development of user-centered solutions. Designed to offer the reader a personal Web design workshop. Color screen shots and illustrations. Softcover. 01Prelims......Page 2 02Chap01......Page 16 03Chap02......Page 24 04Chap03......Page 34 05Chap04......Page 84 06Chap05......Page 120 07Chap06......Page 206 08Chap07......Page 282 09Appendices......Page 316 10Bibliography......Page 326 11Index......Page 330 This volume questions the usefulness and purpose behind commonly used design methods and thinking to encourage more creative and user-centred solutions and to promote more effective management of multimedia projects.