Website design - storm those brains!

[U-96]

I'm working on a non-computer related site connected with my current line of work, and intend it to be used as a resource by others in my profession.

I already have some ideas for content, some short, logical and relevent domain names reserved, and all the tools I need to get started.

It is my intention to use good colour and text design over flash graphics and Java trickery to ease loading times (most of Britain is lucky if it is on 56k modems) and keep maintenence simple while providing the most information possible.
I've got basic HTML 4 figured out, so I can fix things I don't like produced from my Web Editor.
I WILL use Javascript for certain effects/tasks, and may employ CGI for message boards/counters when the site gets hosted and goes live. (all from readily available sources - I'm not THAT clever http://www.sysopt.com/forum/wink.gif )


Before I start in earnest, I would like some opinions on these hot issues that will affect the whole design strategy:

1) Frames or tables for page layout?
2) Should I use CSS and/or DHTML?
3) Dark background/light text or vice versa?

Ummm, that's it. Any advice welcome http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif
I should have a basic layout sorted out soon. It's the content that takes a little longer! If I get a chance, I'll add a link.

U-96

[Smokey]

I think that you should go with tables, CSS, and light text on a darker background. I find Frames are quite annoying if they are not done right (not to say that you wouldn't do it right or anything), and tables just look so much better.

[Ollie Cook]

I'd agree: tables over frames; CSS and no DHTML; light bg, dark text.

Ollie

[Joel Kleppinger]

Frames are VERY annoying.. I wouldn't use them in most cases.

I agree with Ollie on the color of background vs. text. The reasoning is that if you're setting up an info page (and I assume you are), there are people that are going to be wanting to print it out. If your text is too light, nothing will be readable on the printout. So to facilitate this, use a Dark on Light approach. Not to mention it just looks more professional most of the time.

[wyvrn]

TABLES. Frames are more difficult to work with layout wise.

[U-96]

Thanks guys, I really appreciate your input. So far our idea of what looks good and is practical seems to agree http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif

Joel, your point about printouts is one I hadn't considered - especially important with the tabled page as you don't have the advantage of being able to print individual frames.
MSIE tends to ignore background colours when you print, but I hadn't thought about the effect of a light foreground colour on white paper http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif Thanks for alerting me to that!

As for looking more professional, I think light on dark just takes a little more care in design - there's a lot of difference between some ranter's site with primary colours on black (don't forget the <BLINK> tag http://www.sysopt.com/forum/wink.gif) and something like www.3dfxgamers.com (http://www.3dfxgamers.com) ...

Hopefully I'll pull my finger out this weekend and get a layout posted, but hey, it's the Brazilian Grand Prix, so don't expect too much!

U-96

[izzzy12k]

My recommendation, do not use frames, keep all images in one format, and streamline your graphics to the smallest size possible for quick page loading.

izzzy12k

[U-96]

well I'm having a lot of fun with CSS (this is the first time I've looked into using it)

I'm impressed with it's power, but horrified at it's lack of cross-browser implementation *scream*
I get everything perfect in three resolutions on MSIE, and then *poof* it looks like a dogs dinner in Netscape.
...better dig out that old Javascript browser detection routine... http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif


and don't even get me started on DHTML layers!

U-96