Hints and tips on Designing for Web 2.0 Websites

A Web 2.0 site is supposed to charm its visitors with its simplicity and ease of use. So, if you're designing a Web 2.0 site, remember it has to be very interactive and user friendly. Also, a Web 2.0 site gives its visitors a participatory role than a passive one. Therefore, social networking integration is an absolute must for a Web 2.0 site. Here are some more hints and tips on designing an effective Web 2.0 site:

• Central layout – Always go for a central layout with just one or two columns at the most. Remember not to clutter the site. The central layout should be emphasized by simple navigation. Preferably though, have a separate top section so that the visitor knows immediately what resources are available to him according to the tabs.
• Bold logos & bigger text – Bigger text than usual and bold logos make Web 2.0 sites far more easier to use than regular websites. If you enhance these logos and text with strong colors, the site would be able to impress visitors more easily.

• Integrate icons – You can access a huge range of Web 2.0 buttons and flashy icons to immediately capture the attention of visitors. Web 2.0 buttons also help a visitor go straight to the area or information of his need.
• Social networking integration - Twitter integration and Facebook integration are very important for Web 2.0 sites too. In fact, Twitter and Facebook have truly taken Web 2.0 to the next level of interactive website designing. You can find a range of buttons for these applications to match the basic design of your website. You can also put in more buttons on the website for allowing the visitor to share the content through other social networking platforms also.

• Strong color and gradient use with nice photos – Web 2.0 sites are known for their fantastic and creative use of color and gradients. These are matched by large photos. Creative layout with strong sense of color balance and bold photos make for a fantastic Web 2.0 site. Proper use of illustrations and graphics adds to the charm of designing with Web 2.0. All the while, the design must not be overdone nor should it be complicated. The user must be able to navigate to all the key pieces of information in the shortest time possible. Designing with Web 2.0 is more like attempting to appeal to a child's sense of exploration and yet showcasing content to appeal to an adult's requirement.
• Correct use of Flash – Flash has surely made site designing a lot jazzier than ever before. However, flash within web 2.0 sites is used sparingly and more so in sections that are less functional and more for design and impact.