Our Survey: Web Design Trends for 2009

Web Survey 2009

This year’s findings paint a clearer picture of the distinctions between full-time and freelance web professionals: how you work, what you earn, and what you love about the job.

Interestingly, too, despite the brutality of a global recession that was already in full swing when we offered the survey, most respondents revealed a surprisingly high level of job security, satisfaction, and confidence in the future.

We present Web design trends for 2009:

Web Design Trends for 2009

Letter Press / Embossing

Letterpress is used in various styles and on various websites and for various topics; in particular, it is often used in product designs and on websites for online services.

Letter Press / Embossing

Rich user interfaces

AJAX and Flash are widely used to offer users the dynamic interaction

Rich user interface

PNG transparency

PNG transparency, although unsupported by Internet Explorer 6, seems to have gained popularity on the scene over the last year.

PNG Transperancy

Big typography

In 2009, big typography should remain popular. In particular, design agencies, portfolios, product websites and online services will use big typography to communicate the most important messages of their websites.

Big Typography

Font replacement (sIFR, etc.)

What is interesting of sIFR fonts, is that these fonts are often seamlessly integrated in the design of websites; they are almost never used for their own sake or simply to “upgrade” the typography of a website to improve the appearance of websites and improve the user experience.

Font Replacements

Modal boxes

They serve as a user-friendly alternative to classic JavaScript windows and support users by focusing their attention on the most important area of the website.

Modal Boxes

Media blocks

The main advantage of such elements is that they can communicate content quickly and effectively and make it easier for users to consume information.

Media Blocks

The magazine look

Grid-based designs are gaining popularity as well but are used mostly in portfolios, product pages and big blogs.

Magazine Look

Carousels (slideshows)

Instead of clicking through various sections of the website for their favorite stories, users can quickly skim through the available stories without vertical scrolling or unnecessary mouse movements. The result: users save time, and the carousel focuses their attention sharply on the content, instead of on interacting with the browser

Slide Show

Introduction Blocks

Whether for a Web application, corporate design, online service or portfolio, designers are pushing their slogans and brief introductions to the top of the page and are using strong, vivid typography to make a good first impression.

Introduction blocks

Read more description in details from Website Designing India

Source: Smashingmagazine.com