I found chapter 13 hard to retain without having Photoshop CS5 readily available. As I read through the chapter I tried to imagine following along on the computer, but that didn't work. I tried to use Elements 10 and some of the commands are not in the same place or available in this version/edition. From what I've learned in class and all that I have read, Photoshop is a very versatile and powerful photo editing software that makes web creation interesting, dynamic, and visually appealing. I never realized that Photoshop was used so heavily for animating websites. Who'd a thunk it?????
As a website designer you put a tremendous amount of thought, time, and effort into creating or building your website. The last thing you want is a website that is difficult to view or follow due to technology limitations. For this reason, one of the most important things you need to consider when building your site is troubleshooting the site on various computers, browsers, and displays. Getting into this habit is both smart and a good practice. Once your site has been uploaded and active an equally important task is to maintain your website regularly. Chapter 14 reviews the various ways to accomplish all of the above. I was amazed to find out that there is software available that actually tests your site for problems or missing links. This is has got to be a huge time saver.
Chapter 15 is the next logical step. They provide instructions on contacting an ISP, gathering all the necessary files needed for your site, to testing and updating you site once its live. The most important thing you need from your ISP is the ftp information. This information tells you the who, what, and where about your site, not to mention the necessary information in order for you to modify its contents once you've uploaded it and are live. Without it your dead in the water.
Diigo readings were plentiful. There were multiple articles that focused on writing for the web and how it differs from print. This information was helpful in completing part of this weeks blog assignment as well as understanding what should be included in my website. There were a few articles that explained the need for storyboarding and how to go about doing that. This is where I'm having the most difficultly. I like to dive into a project and see the results as I progress. To me it's easier to see my work unfold on the computer than it is to visualize what it will look like on paper. I don't like to write, give me a computer and I'll type the notes versus hand writing them. I realize that you need to plan ahead before taking on a project, yet this is where I struggle the most. Even when I write papers for school I like to just start writing instead of creating an outline. I prefer to look at this as a force of habit, instead of laziness, right brain -vs- left brain, or even old dog new tricks etc...
Storyboards.....
The storyboard allows you to create your story or layout on paper ahead of time. It's a complete visual representation of the entire site that will help you determine if you like the flow prior to writing code. By using the storyboard you enable yourself to make changes and view how everything is linked together all at once without having to change or re-write code. It's like creating note cards or a rough draft for a term or research paper. You have most of the information available at your fingertips prior to writing the final draft. The same holds true to your website, sure you can still make changes, but at least you have a foundation in which to build your site.
Web writing....
When you write for the web there are many things you need to take into consideration. Most web surfers, don't read web pages word for word. Instead they read about 20% of what's displayed. Therefore, you need to get your information in front of the viewer fast or you'll loose the opportunity. Long drawn out paragraphs won't cut it, use action words to grab their attention. Now that you have their attention, make sure you keep it personalized. Give your viewers a way to contact you in case they have questions or comments. Most people have something to same or comment about if given the opportunity. And for god sake, Check Your Spelling and Grammar!!!!
Tips for writing for the web -vs- print
- Short paragraphs and to the point -vs- long winded explanations
- Use of lists, bullets and subheadings -vs- paragraph after paragraph
- Link your source to the content instead of footnoting or citing
- Use conversational language -vs- formal language
- Inverted triangle, conclusion in the beginning -vs- towards the end
2.0 website...
I'm leaning towards Weebly for my web 2.0 site for three reasons.
1. It's free
2. No advertisments
3. It one of the sites Michele recomended
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