There are standards out there about web pages that suck. There are standards, though far more open, about web pages that rock. In general, these standards are accurate, and continue to apply as the World Wide Web evolves.

However, the core question in dealing with web sites is not if they conform to these standards. The more important question lies in addressing whether or not these websites accomplished their goal. Purpose, as Agent Smith would say, is what links us.

Did the web page have a goal? If so, did it accomplish said goal? How well did it do this? At this point, discussion of search boxes and opening new windows and layout all become important. But, if the website fails to accomplish its intended goal, it automatically sucks.

Auto-suck.

Because of this approach, my web design to this point has been minimalist and utilitarian to the extreme. What fanciness do I need for a home page that is essentially a place for my favorite links? A simple image tag with some text and paragraph markers will suffice for a bio. My blog has always looked good in most of the LiveJournal default layouts. The same is true with my photo album.

Now, I have a new challenge. My semester project will require me to integrate data and imagery in a way that will catch the eye, be enjoyable to my target audience, and not overwhelm them with a too-busy layout.

I hope my web page won’t suck.

I pray to avoid the auto-suck.