1. Steve Krug’s -5- Guiding Principles of Good Web Design & Usability
Don’t Make Me think!

2. 1. Don’t Make Me Think COMPLICATED!
Overriding guideline for all design and usability
Good design eliminates all questions and confusion
User should not have to second guess or question intent
Simplest answer is usually the Best!
COMPLICATED!

3. 2. How We Really Use the Web
Most users don’t read but scan
Pick out things they are looking for or things that stand out
Users “muddle” through sites to find what they want
Don’t follow best or intended way to find what they want

4. 3. Billboard Design 101 Web page design similar to Billboard design
Clear Visual Hierarchy
Don’t be afraid of following conventions and what is proven to work
Don’t reinvent the wheel!

5. 4. Animal Vegetable or Mineral
Meant to illustrate that users like mindless choices
Not mindless choices usually caused by ambiguity or similarity
Causes confusion and reduced trust
There are enough hard decisions already in life!

6. 5. Omit Needless Words Common problem
Remove “happy talk” usually on home page
Remove instructions or reduce to minimum
Helps really important content stand out
Reduces distractions and intimidation

7. Contact Info:
Name: Carl Smith
Web Page:
Thank you!