In the early stages of web graphics the more traditional skeuomorphic design dominated the web portraying realism. An example of this was the early versions of IOS.

As the web develops, design has became a lot cleaner and the current trend of flat design has been implemented onto many websites and operating systems. Including the new IOS.

In an article on the topic, UX Myths said:

“Many designers would rather attempt reinventing the wheel than to adapt conventional user interface design patterns.”

Design trends are tested. They exist and are implemented because they meet the needs of the user. Because they work well, they have been tested and meet usability needs. Even companies use well tested and implimented designs to use inspiration for to boost their branding.

With the millions upon millions of websites being designed it’s hard for originality to exist. Even harder when trends exists backed up by testing and research to prove good usability.

It is impossible for every designer to come up with a new design or style each time? Of course! Art has never been original. People take inspiration from one another, learn from mistakes and develop on ideas.

Websites like Pinterest exist because designers and artists take inspiration from one another.

Now. I agree that websites often follow a way to similar to one another and sometimes lack originallity shall we say. The new trend of one page paralax scrolling has been done so many times it now looks unimpressive and templated. I get it. But design doesn’t have to be original. Take that idea which people have become used to and therefore unimpressed and alter it in a way which makes it impressive. Makes it art.

-Tom.

Web Media Level 1. Ravensbourne.

WEB14105

Tom Sharman.