Webforumz Newsletter - December 2007
WOTM Interview
WOTM Winner
Congratulations to aso186 and his website www.k9logic.com.au/ on winning the Website of the Month competition for December.
What does it take to create that winning formula? We spoke to this months winner, aso186 to find out what went into designing and developing his site.
What was your inspiration for the design?
Hmm, I think I just wanted a clean, simple site that was attractive and looked professional. There was a lot of development, you wouldn't believe what I started out with! But my friend Zoe was great: she had a keen eye for things and by moving things around, trying out colours and so forth, it really just came together.
Which section was trickiest to code?
Well, considering there's nothing really complicated, I guess the navigation tabs took quite a bit of trial and error.
What was the brief for this project?
Quite literally, a site that showcased what Zoe did, where she was, and how to get in touch.
How long did the development process take?
Development took the course of about 3 or 4 weeks I think, but of course not every day was 9 till 5.
How did you decide which technologies to use for this site?
Well, again, the simplicity of the site meant there wasn't much demand for anything fancy. I did use PHP for the contact form. In fact, I integrated all the validation into PHP simply to keep free of javascript.
How long have you been designing websites?
I've been designing sites more frequently for the past 3 months, but I actually first got into it around the end of 2006.
What programs do you use?
I use a mix-match of programs since I'm always on the lookout for new ones to try out. But mainly I use PS Elements for graphics, PHP Designer for PHP and have been using CoffeeCup for HTML.
How do you see websites evolving over the next 10 years?
Crikey. Well, looking at the rate of acceleration these past few years, I think it's going to get quite intense! But I do see more and more people aiming for web standards and accessibility, which should hopefully keep the web alive for many years to come.
What are the next steps for this site?
None as of yet, but I do hope to perhaps act out a little SEM down the line.
What is your favourite element of the site?
The photos! DeviantArt was a big help, and after scouring for the best ones to fit the bill, all the photographers were extremely supportive. I would say to all designers who haven't heard of DeviantArt to get an account today!
Where do you get your inspiration?
All the other designers out there! I see so much creativity, I must admit sometimes it's frustrating I can't do the same. But nevertheless, it's what starts my mind ticking.
What is your top tip for developing a website?
Don't rush. Take your time and develop. Try things out. If they don't work, no big deal, go back and take a different angle.
What have you got planned for the future?
Just keep on learning, progressing and see what comes along.
aso186's site can be found at: http://www.k9logic.com.au.
Do you have the winning formula?
Why not enter your own site for Website of the Month, and next month we could be featuring you and your site!
