Page 254 - DCAP303_MULTIMEDIA_SYSTEMS

Multimedia Systems

notes The scale of the major visual elements of image and text blocks is pleasing. The text blocks of
the heads, menu and company name align and give a sense of order. The menu block overlaps
the image on a transparent field that literally overlaps and attaches itself to the image and
provides unity. The eye moves fluidly from the image to the menu to the description that
is tucked in the negative space. This triangular movement feels comfortable, keeps the user
focused on the centre of the page, and enhances the cohesive feel of the page.
Brevity
The simplicity of design makes the Website inviting from the start. Although there is a lot of
information the user is met with an engaging organizational structure. Choices are clear and
to the point, and the minimal descriptive text is well written. Long blocks of text sometimes
turn-off the viewer because of the length, and are often ignored. Short blocks are much more
enticing and in the case of SamataMason delightful to read.
Cropped images
It is interesting that in all cases the images are not typical studio shots of a complete printed
spread or an object but rather a tightly cropped detail of a larger image. The result is an
intriguing composition that incites curiosity. Because of resolution constraints it is often
difficult to show an entire image effectively. This system allows the viewer to appreciate the
details of the design and get the gist of the project.
visual analysis

submenu Choices, (right)

The visual analysis diagram breaks the elements on the Web page down into simple defined
areas. The largest visual element is the image area, shown in light red, as a horizontal rectangle.
This image area is systemized on each Web page and becomes a standard visual element for
each page. This yields a sense of continuity and rhythm to the site even as the information
changes.
Text information occupies four positions on the Web page. The top two blocks are short
headlines. The long vertical text block is a menu with a series of choices that link to other text
pages. The large horizontal text block is a short descriptive paragraph of informative copy.
The company name occupies the bottom text block and aligns with a plus sign in brackets
that when clicked invites the viewer to “rate the page.”
rating and feedback

rating and feedback, (lower right)
Contd...

248 LoveLy professionaL University