The web is experiencing its own little version of the ’80s. There are so many new options and capabilities available, and everyone is going crazy finding ways to add it all to their site. This is causing a terrible trend of putting aesthetics ahead of an excellent user experience. In 10 years we’ll look back and cringe at all of these “mullet websites,” much like we cringe at certain photos on the mantel.
I’m a huge believer in the saying, “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” Design-wise, some of these websites are actually beautiful to look at (but then, so is a good mullet). However, most of them fail at even the basics of a good user experience and usability. Since UX is obviously the most important factor to interface design, form should certainly follow function. (Does a mullet have a function?)
So stand up with me and JUST. SAY. NO! Say NO to over animated transitions. Say NO to scroll hijacking. Say NO to preloaders, popout menus, and poorly used hero shots! Know your audience and put them first!
A user interface needs to function with the user to achieve their goals. It’s not an art piece, unless it actually is. Also, Flash is dead, please stop trying to resuscitate it and let it die with dignity.
