I found this cool little Flash animation called “The Eight Irresistible Principles of Fun“. It reminds us that we really should have fun more often (if not whenever possible). Simple, to the point design on a black background. Effective way of getting your message across without trying to muddle it up with a bunch of useless graphics.

When designing a business card, flyer, or even a website, there’s always a message. It’s the whole purpose of having any one of the three.

The words contained on any marketing material are important. They are the literal expression of what you’re trying to say. The explicit message.

But what does the design itself say? What’s your implicit message?

More important than what is said literally, is how it is presented visually.

This issue highlighted a design firm’s website. Remarkable.

The one thing that probably amazes me even more, is the fact that most people are under the impression that simple = easy. This couldn’t be farther from the truth.

Design is deliberate. It has to be. That’s what makes simple design so appealing… you don’t know why it is so attractive.

It just is.

What does it mean?

When people use it in reference to web sites, their thought process usually involves color scheme, images, and general aesthetics. When a “designer” builds a site, the focus is on the look of the site.

They’re only seeing half the picture.

Sure, the look and feel of a web site is certainly important. It conveys the image or brand of a company or product. Often times, though, the equally significant aspect of usability is overlooked.

The layout of a website and how people get around it, usually does not get the attention it deserves.

Is the purpose of the site clear? Is it obvious where to go next? Does the site look appealing and memorable in the process? Are people comfortable purchasing on the site?

All of these features make up design.