Here are a few pointers towards achieving innovation and perfection in the art of Website design and Development
1. The Major Ingredients for Innovations in Website Design and Development
With rapid changes in the technology arena, a host of new technologies are coming up. Essentially languages and Platforms like HTML 5,CSS, PHP, Jquery, AJAX, Flex are required to make some innovative changes in the existing Web Development techniques. A good knowledge of these platforms with an urge to explore is required to make the perfect website
2. Right Technologies for the Right Client Requirement
Like with every good recipe, all ingredients should be as per the taste (read as Client Requirement).If a Website Design does not suit the client needs, it fails to meet its purpose.
For Example: A Jeweler's Website would require a Flash/Flex based interface to present the jewelry pieces and an easy navigation for the user to make online purchases. Lots of text, however brilliant the copy maybe would be considered irrelevant here.
Similarly, an e-commerce website would require continuous updates about the products, a clean design, active payment gateway, and ease of upload of products/prices. Unnecessary presentation elements would hamper the focused shopper, who is here to shop for the required items.
Hence the discretion to use the right amount of text and visual elements lies with not just Designer or the Developer but has to be decided upon with and in consultation with the client.
3. Presentation is very Important: Looks Nice, Will Work Nice
Like for an appetizing dish the garnishing is very important, so is for a great website, the presentation is extremely important but in sync with the new technologies and as per the requirement of the intended user base .JQuery enabled Sideshows, Flash Galleries and a balanced color palate, all are important for enhanced customer experience.
4. Not Just about Text and Images: Innovation Asks for more
Today's Users are done with vanilla websites, they ask for a complete package in form of a one stop shop for all their needs. The website should have a host of utilities like Live Chat, Social Media Tools like (Facebook, Twitter, Skype etc),payment gateway for online shopping, Discussion Boards, Virtual Tours. These are required to keep the user hooked on to your site. A lot more condiments than just salt and pepper would be required to mark your presence on the web.
5. A lot more than just the Web: Presence on Mobile Platforms
The most innovations in the Website Design and Development is also due to the plethora of Mobile devices in the market. Your mere presence on the web is not enough. Technologies like HTML5 and CSS3 for the mobile platforms will help you be closer to your user base.
6. It's not just about Marketing: It's About the Passion for Web Technologies
The use of the latest development technology, the most user centered design, the most appealing content may make your website a perfect marketing tool, but If you want users to come back to your site and refer it further, you need to work with a dedication and real love for technology who would go beyond the set limits of design and development to give you the best in Innovative Web design and Technologies.