Graphics in Web Design are a Very Touchy Subject!

Contributed by Ian Hess

Is there a "Real Purpose" for Web Design Graphics?

In many of the discussions about Web design graphics you hear the phrase "real purpose." This is the kind of term you could use when talking about motor vehicles:

"Sure, NASCAR is popular, and some people like to drive a sports car, but the real purpose of a motor vehicle, son, is to get between point A and point B. Car's are for travel, not racing. I fine you 300 dollars and hold you in contempt of court for being late."

I suppose it could be said that a spatula has a real purpose. It's probably for mixing and scraping food, like cake icing, rather than for spanking small children. Ouch! Cane's, on the other hand, at least in Indonesia, are specifically made for beating people when breaking the law. I'm not sure if this includes speeding.

If the real purpose of any object is "X," you can be sure that someone can find a way to improvise that object for new uses, specifically any "Y" that can be made harsh or abusive.

In other words, when I hear the term "real purpose," I always suspect we are listening to someone moralize. Graphics are a creative medium. One could hardly further the creativity of something through moralizing.

That all Said, Web Design Graphics are Best When:

Graphics help guide the use of a site's content. The online medium is interactive, unlike magazines and as of yet TV. When you present content THAT content has a virtual purpose (I'm online most of my life, so I'm going to avoid saying real purpose).

Graphics can highlight that purpose by making the content more appealing. The Web really isn't a glamour or art design competition. It's not about being hip or cool in any current fashion, 'tho' Britney may "rock" all over the Web.

And the Web is certainly not about keeping up with the Smith's next door, because the Web's potential is to allow everyone to express themselves freely rather than to be restricted by the Smiths OR the Britneys. (I heard she has a new dog.)

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