Response to Participating in the Always on Lifestyle

     In this article, Danah Boyd explains how her life and her internet usage as “always on”. Though  we are connected to the internet by computer usage, the aspects of checking media through portable devices can make it convenient. Because of this convenience, mobile devices have a function that declares you always on. Boyd points out that despite that she is “always on”, it does not dictate if she’s online. She proceeds to do non internet related task such  as buying food and/or exercising.

     Boyd starts comparing the average usage of as a clock. We respond to constant instant messages, we post our lives online, adhering to the always on status on social media. She compares these activities of an addiction. But, Boyd explains that why we are always on can pertain to our lifestyles and goals. She mentions one user’s experience of blogging negotiated social boundaries within friends.Though usage of the web through always on, life can be complicated with the multiple uses but, it can be balanced as well.

Response to Choosing and Pairing Typefaces

     In reference to the article, the importance of choosing a typeface can affect how view and see things in everyday life. The choice of a typeface is a make it or break it factor on how we approach anything. Regarding typefaces, there are two ways seeing it in context: type for a moment and type to live with. Type for a moment can be referenced to moments such as finding directions on the road. Typefaces for moments are usually simpler and are coherent with  san serif. The simplicity of  fonts appear well on signs.

     Type to live with can refer to more permanent texts such as printed books and articles. Type faces have to be equal in texture and contrast. Because of the context of it being read at a longer timeframe in comparison for type for a moment, the typeface would be smooth and without friction.

     Considering these two categories, there are many methods in which one can choose a typeface. One aspect can be word association. Word association can be approached on how does one want to perceive the typeface rather than choosing a typeface.Comparisons of real text help in regards to relating text to actual sources. Appropriateness refers to using text at a certain time and place. Lastly, one would have to be careful with ready mades and free fonts. Ready mades can be reliable but not individualistic. Free fonts are acceptable but are less technical compared to paid fonts

Response to Thinking With Type

     The importance of type can affect  the way we view web pages. Comparing type appearing on a web page and a book, typographic treatment matters in appearances.  The application of a typeface within a webpage can create a sense of clarity on a page. By using the kerning and spacing, a web designer can differentiate themselves from amateurs with these little details.

     Before the days of multiple type, web designers often had to used the fonts provided by the computers themselves. Over time, techniques were created to advance fonts into further development. Additionally to these techniques, users can use third party toolkits with additional paid features.

     By using a typeface, one can execute a proper font as a visual aesthetic. Though most can, using a free font instead of a paid font can affect the page’s context. Free fonts are often associated poorly due to their lack of spacing and distribution. Additionally, using line spacing and tracking can help organize and create effects in typography hidden to the eye.

Response to Designing for the New Fold: Web Design Post Monitorism

February 14, 2016 § Leave a comment

     To summarize the article, the generalized aspect ratio of the fold is withering due to majority of people transitioning from PC viewing of the web to mobile device. The ideals of “one-size fits all” fold does not appeal best when transitioning from a web screen to a mobile screen. Aspect ratios differ in size presentation of devices, with the quality lessening on smaller devices. In order to understand what a fold is, it is related to the format similar to the olden days of print. On a web screen, the fold appears on the top part of the page with a piece of information often between 570 to 600 px. Just above the fold is contrived of an advertisement. The fold was often placed on top in order to grab information from one’s eyes.  

     Since the fold now has no specific placement compared to the past, web designers have found a solution to combat converting the fold from web format to mobile format. Taking into consideration of how mobile users prefer to scroll over, designers place the format of the fold beyond 600 px. Web designers now use a sense of hierarchy  on placing the fold rather than worrying about pixels and a fixed ratio.

Response to Why Web Design is Dead

     In response to the article, web design can be considered dead due to a multitude of possibilities. The lifespan of web design is depleting due to the use of templates for programming and sites using robots for their programs. The notion of maintaining a website has depleted due to business owners using Facebook as a means for their company to enter virtualization. Additionally, the age of the mobile site/app has depleted the usage of accessing the website unless an app in not installed.

     Though applications and mobile access have thwarted the livelihood of the web page, the designer should stop creating a new web page. Since the amounts of websites are overwhelming, designers should make fewer websites to meet today’s standards. The key ideal for a designer of this day is to maintain and keep the appeals of the website

Response to Should Web Designers Know HTML and CSS

     After reading this article, it gave me some insight on what differentiates between a “web” designer and a designer who is proficient in coding. According to the Michael Tuck article, so called “web” designers are not proficient with HTML or CSS and have managed without it. To truly be a web designer, you must be extremely skilled with both HTML and CSS. Some designers have scrutinized others for not acquiring the skill. In some designers’ defense, a designer must work with a coder on a design team rather than learn the skills themselves. Additionally, advertising firms also prefer this notion of having specific designers for Photoshop and web design.

     To respond towards the majority of designers, to not be able to code is to not truly defines what truly is web design. Just because you are proficient in Photoshop and Illustrator does not mean you are a web designer. The images created for webpages from these programs do not define web design. Each image contains coding just to appear as it is on screen. Though HTML and CSS are seen as easy, the true test of a designer is shown through practice and longevity within both programs. Bottom line is that web designers should know coding, to truly be a web designer.