Introduction to Web Usability

This class will teach students how to craft web pages that are clear and easy to navigate. By learning graphic design fundamentals and studying usability guidelines, students will acquire the tools necessary to create a clean, functional site. These are interactive seminars that include hands-on exercises.

Session I - [Form Design, Product Pages, and Content Display]

• Learn the concept of a form and how companies use them to create communities, collect data, and finalize purchases
• Plan and design your form in a way that reduces abandonment rates
• Find out the fundamental differences between in-store versus online shopping
• Examine product presentation and label design to learn how to create web pages that ensure an enjoyable and easy shopping experience

Session II - [User-Centered Information Architecture and Navigation Design]

• Find out how effective information architecture enables people to step logically through a system
• Learn how to create personas and build a site structure that is both intuitive and effective
• Discuss how navigation via the web differs from traditional “table of contents” style navigation print readers are accustomed to
• Create your own navigation system that is both effective and efficient in order to build a successful site