I found this great tool that dynamically creates animate gif load bars on the fly. It has a bunch of templates you can choose from. If you want a quick fix for a load bar and don’t want to create it from scratch check out the link below.

http://www.ajaxload.info/

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In designing web solutions sometimes we forget to include some of the basic techniques in order to make a page stand out. It’s simple and most creatives think of it but for some, it isn’t put into emphasis enough. Backgrounds are essential in creating stimulating web pages that pop out at the visitor. Whether it be a repeating pattern or a drop shadow behind the main interface the background adds depth and a dynamic feel to any web GUI. Standard web GUI width should span a maximum of 900px in order to make sure all monitors are able to see the bulk of the main site. SO when we create layouts is always important to include space in order to show what the background of the site will look like. Another key idea is to always show your design comp within a browser. Sizing is a large issue when it comes to the development of web sites, as we all know and showing a client the design in its environment is always the best to minimize confusion.

I have been in countless companies where the focus is set on the main body of the site without the thought of what the site will look like within the browser. Clients sign off on the design and a solid background is coded taking away much needed depth in the design of the page. As designers, we must think of the whole picture. Incorporating depth and establishing the full environment is key! Give your design BACK! and bring your design into the light.

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I came upon this issue today, figured I write a little post about since I wasn’t really too sure how to handle such a situation. Maybe someone out there will find it interesting how we handled it.

Back Story:
One of my clients who just so happens to be very “strong willed” came into a bit of a conundrum. We have done a lot of work for campaigns, re branding, and other creative endeavors…. Long story short, there was a large open balance for creative that had already been released to them. Now I love helping my clients and always do my best to support them in any way I can, but with such a large balance I had to put all work on hold, even with deadlines fast approaching.

So now I’m at a loss, could loose the client could not but how do you handle such a situation? Ideally the payments would have been made promptly and all of this would have been avoided. So I put everything on hold and missed deadlines. Either way I think it was a bold but effective move. No one works for free and we stood our ground.

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Don’t get me wrong I love my clients but some time or another we get into a situation of the client push. Push…more like a jab in the side. “I need this done ASAP”. We are a deadline driven people us creatives, ASAP when I last checked was not a date. I don’t mean to be harsh…I’m just trying a new way of writing…sometimes a client just doesn’t listen. In my experience, which is always debatable, the best work comes from a hands off client. I found this great post on Freelance Switch that defines the different types of clients to the tee. 12 Breeds of Clients

Great article and hits on a a similar point. This would be classified as the hands on client, more like all up in your $hit client. As much as I don’t like to piss off my customers…as I love them dearly… they all should know that creative minds have an unsaid way about them. Maybe it should be in the contract…The best part is when they push you so hard to get everything done then drop off the face of the planet…love that… Bottom line…everyone works differently. Constructive criticism is encouraged, but when we talk about the “Client Push” this goes beyond constructive criticism, usually ending up in a complete loss of aesthetic.

It’s frustrating to see a great design go bad, and this is a result of the Client Push. If your new to the field or a seasoned veteran my advise, always stand up for your designs and hit them home with a nice summary of your ideas…otherwise…well you get the point.

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A design has so many meanings. What we create, a brand, an element, a finished piece, what is it? I ahd a conversation with my Executive creative director and my design team and we still could not come to a decision on what design is. Its debatable… but when we step back from the literal meaning of a design we need to realize that when we are creating a website we create an atmosphere, not a design. It’s different than print, its interface design infused with creative concepts and key visual easements. A place where the visitor can be engulfed in a presence. Sites like littledeviant.com or hotelgloriasubotica.com. All of the sites out there create a network of information that is free to all, the web, a cultural conglomerate of information.

Atmospheric Creation…yea I’m making up terms again but its a great idea to keep in mind when designing. To create an atmosphere, a presence, and experience… That is what makes a site different and impactful. I’ve written about cookie cutter web design before which is the complete opposite of this idea.

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