One of the last questions we ask our clients during a design consultion is which screen resolution they'd prefer and if they'd favour a fixed-width or percentage-based (stretchable) website . The term screen resolution is actually a bit of a misnomer because almost all computer screens display at the equivalent of 72-96 ppi (pixels per inch). What we are actually referring to is screen size or how big a website will appear on the screen.
The current trend is that more and more computers are using a screen size of 1024 x 768 pixels or more, currently accounting for 77% of users. Latest statistics state that only 17% use a screen resolution of 800 x 600. This is all very well but you can't rely on statistics alone to determine which screen resolution is best for your site. Thought has to be put into the intended audience, navigational structure and client expectations.
Here are some examples of the different screen resolutions available:
www.mourant.com - Simply change the size of the browser to see how the content stretches to conform to it. Notice how the left and top navigation remain fixed while the content area stretches.
www.cooper.co.je - This site uses a fixed width of 800 x 600 which is appropriate for their target market and works well with the design.
www.day2dayshop.com - They chose 1024 x 768 due to the quantity of content required, their navigational structure and their client base.
www.vistra.com - Vistra went for the 'less is more' philosophy choosing powerful imagery over a large screen resolution. Many design agencies use this approach often incorporating flash elements into their design.
So choosing the most appropriate screen resolution for your website is more than just a matter of statistics, it depends on the situation and the market, and also personal preferences.
No comments:
Post a Comment