CHAPTER 1: What Is Web Design? Summary Web design is a multidisciplinary pursuit that consists of four primary components: content, form, function, and purpose. However, agreement as to exactly how these components mix together varies from person to person as well as project to project. While good Web design is hard to define, there is certainly understanding of what not to do. The field has a great deal to learn from other disciplines, particularly from the intersection of graphical interface design and traditional print design. Yet borrowing heavily from other disciplines can also cause problems, because the Web is a unique medium. Its fusion of media forms, its unpredictable delivery environment, and the extreme variability that results from its acute sensitivity to societal and technological influences makes it an extremely challenging medium to work in. However, if the designer keeps the user in mind at all times, many of the most serious design errors can be avoided. Furthermore, designers should respect the restrictions of the medium, as well as any emerging conventions, regardless of what users may think they want. While the development process may be challenging, following even a basic Web site development methodology can be extremely helpful. The next chapter will introduce the basic process that is often followed when building sites.

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