This New Year, usher in New Design Elements!

The celebrations are on! The decorations are out and so have the New Year resolutions begun! I have seen many trying to stick to their New Year’s resolutions all through the year. The argument often continues about this tradition considering that promises are meant to be broken!

I have always been passionate about design. And my resolution has always been to whip up something exciting and creative every year! This year, I did come up with few concepts. That is why I feel website design in 2010 should be and will be a step ahead…it will be all about keeping the user engaged on the page with website interactivity with a purpose!

Website Interactivity: 2010 trends
I have seen many websites that do use different forms of interactivity to engage users. The purpose of the interactivity is fulfilled only when it does manage to engage users on the page.

The Predictions for Website Interactivity: 2010
I do have a few ideas for website interactivity for designers who want to engage users on the site. I surely do wish to share the same thoughts and know your feedback.

Include interactions that engage users in a creative manner. For example, a product website can look more authentic if it has testimonials displayed. This is not a new concept, but here I am referring to a better and enhanced display of the same. The original method is placing the text with the quote marks on the side panels. One can display the same in an interactive way, wherein the testimonials are provided and given a personal touch, using your customer’s video or image and supported with attractive visuals. This makes a user feel like clicking to view more. A customer may also feel that he should be there in the list of the testimonials!

Present a set of the not-so-obvious elements in a different light. This means, bringing about creativity in areas least expected. For example, jog your memory and try to visualize different site maps. I am sure; this brings to mind some boring layouts and a typical display of topics of the site. It surely does nothing to induce an action or make a visitor want to explore it further. I suggest that one can present this area in a creative manner as well. Use the topic of your website to your benefit and create interactions around it. There are a few websites that employ this technique (read this post for more information); it makes a user want to explore the site as it is presented in a combination of visuals and animations. That sure brings about a unique look for websites.

The key to website interactivity for the New Year is to think Out of the Box. Keep your user in mind and design around it. It is bound to give many new approaches towards website design. I hope to see many more creative designs in the New Year, enjoy the celebrations for the New Year!

Happy New Year to all of you!