Re: Intro to Web Design

Most of the websites I design nowadays are for work, which gives me a very clear baseline: my lab works exclusively with transportation agencies, who want a clear, informative layout that can easily be edited by their staff. Because of this we've been using a lot of WordPress, so I usually start by researching templates, which I then break apart and reorganize in Photoshop. Factors we usually consider include the client's requested color scheme and the type/amount of information they want on their site, as well as special effects (e.g., interactive calendars, alert bars, etc).

The most important thing in designing these--or any--websites is the client's needs, which are not always clear: apparently my lab has a bad habit of not listening to its clients, so we usually start by compiling a requirements spreadsheet based on what the client says. We then adjust it to reflect new requests and/or practical constraints, and keep it on hand when designing/building the site.

And if I really get stuck, webdesign-inspiration.com is always a handy resource.