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Web Dynamics |
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dynamic nature of the Web is another consideration that requires planning
when transitioning information from linear to non-linear form. Printed,
linear media produce static content. On the Web, smart designers take
advantage of changeable aspects of their information presentation.
Challenge The challenge for writers who traditionally produce linear content, is to think creatively about how a dynamic element could add relevance and meaning to a web presentation. Designers and writers need to evaluate the needs of their audiences, and think about what information could be presented dynamically. This may change the information presentation either by chance, by IP address, or by level of expertise. Dynamic content meets different needs than static content or linear content, and can enhance web design if employed wisely. Solutions The ability to control content based on the user's expertise or content preferences is an ideal way to take advantage of flexibility in web design. Commercial web sites can change the prices of their products at any time based on the market, the existing supply and demand, etc. News web sites can update the "Top Stories" as soon as news breaks, or change the "Traffic Updates" as conditions change. The Web offers the ability for designers to creatively use the technology's flexibility to improve information presentation. Imagine
a hierarchical Web site that utilizes dynamic borders to instill
situational awareness. The Web site borders could change based on
the reader's location within the hierarchy. If they are on the lower
right corner of the site map, the lower right corner border becomes
thin, and the other borders become thick, showing the increased
content in another direction of the site. The
implications of this design possibility could be a virtual 3-D experience
with site navigation, better usability for the users, and a different
sense of situational awareness. |
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