Perez's Grid

Websites, just like newspapers and magazines, rely on a grid to keep order and bring functionality to the website. Most users, including myself before I took this class, don't realize that grids are being used, but they bring a sense hierarchy and a natural feeling of order. PerezHilton.com uses a grid to do that. It has a main column in the center of the page, with probably occupies two or three sections of the grid. On each side of the main column, two smaller columns with ads, and other information run down the page. These column are probably set to occupy one seciton of the grid. Even the ad banners and title are aligned with the invisable grid. Without the use of grids by PerezHiton, the page layout would be chaos, and Perez leaves the chaos shoudl to the celebrities.

Lupton Text--the Obama website

Reading the Lupton text only increased and amplified my belief that the design of the website not only defines the company//corporation//or campaign, but also determines whether or not a user will be intrigued by it's aspects. The example I have chosen for this post is Barack Obama's website, which proved essential in his presidential campaign.
























The website conveys so many messages in just a simple, yet intricate design. It emulates American spirit through it's color scheme (Red, White, Blue), and speaks to its audience directly by calling out for real stories and real people. There's a direct link to donate money, as well as to get more involved, volunteer, view media clips, check out the Democratic Party and platform, and many others. Everything about the site is a call to action for unity and spirit, even in the worst of economic times.

Overall, Obama's website is impressive and inspiring. It makes me want to get involved, and cheer for America even when skepticism seems the most popular state of mind. I firmly believe he has accomplished his goal (obviously, I guess) and really portrays a strong, yet subtle message that all audiences can understand.