Design Principles and Tips for Media Layout

Design Principles influence how you place and control visual elements (color, line, shape, texture, size, space) on a page or within an electronic layout. They include:

Proportion - The size and relationship of objects in a design should be visually pleasing and a clue to their importance.

Balance - Use formal balance (symmetrical) to create a conservative feeling. Use informal balance (asymmetrical) to get attention.

Contrast - Use differences to create interest and emphasis. Visual elements that can be varied including type size, style, color and images.

Rhythm - Place objects and text to direct the eye. Use repetition and variation of design elements to emphasize what is important.

Unity - First impressions count. Keep the theme and style consistent. Use restraint with the number and variety of fonts and images

 

General Tips
  • Know the objectives.
  • Keep age of audience in mind.
  • Keep topic focused.
  • Make your messages substantive.
  • Design on paper or electronically. (index cards, Inspiration )
  • Use uniform icons, sizes, styles, etc.
  • Have others review your work.
  • Respect copyright laws; don’t plagiarize.

Text Tips
  • Use readable font and colors that contrast with the background.
  • Balance text with white space.
  • Put only one space after a period. (Leave two spaces only if using a typewriter.

Font Tips
  • Keep the title simple and clear.
  • Use a large, readable font.
  • Contrast the title and the background.
  • Don’t use ALL CAPS.
  • Use sans serif (type without finishing strokes) for titles and short text items.
  • Use serif for content (such as paragraphs).
  • Keep fonts consistent.
  • Use standard font families (e.g., Times) for presentations.
  • Use 36 points or higher for clear electronic presentations.
  • Keep special effects for special times.

Graphic Tips
  • Relate the graphics to the topic.
  • Use graphics judiciously, so they make the point you want.
  • Limit size of color graphics for documents that will be printed.
  • Repeat borders and specific graphics on multi-page document or presentation to create a consistent look.

Sound Effect Tips
  • Keep sound effects brief and related to the picture or content.
  • Keep the message clear; don’t obscure it with sounds.
  • Repeat the sound if it serves the same function.

Evaluation Tips
  • Preview/proofread carefully.
  • Have others review your grammar, punctuation and spelling.
  • Make sure you are communicating what you want by having others review your content.
  • Rehearse presentations.

References:

McCain, Ted D.E. Designing for Communication: The Key to Successful Desktop Publishing. Eugene, OR: ISTE Publications, 1992.

Parker, Roger C. The Makeover Book, 101 Design Solutions for Desktop Publishing. Chapel Hill, NC: Ventana Press, Inc. 1989.

“Stack Design Tips” feature column in newsletter, HyperStudio Forum. HyperStudio Network, Box 103, Blawenburg, NJ 08504.

Williams, Robin. The Mac Is Not a Typewriter. Berkeley, CA: Peachpit Press, 1990.

Williams, Robin. The Non-Designer’s Design Book: Design and Typographic Principles for the Visual Novice. Berkeley, CA: Peachpit Press, 1994.