Are you feeling uninspired with your current web designs? Do you need something to boost your creativity or kick-start your productivity? It's not uncommon to experience a slump, especially if you've been in the business for awhile; the key is to not let it defeat you. Here are just a few ways to become a better web designer.
- Get New Software
The same way a Mastercam dealer can provide CAD/CAM software tools for all types of programming and machining needs, there are many different software packages for web design. New software may be exactly what you need to grease the wheels of your imagination. As a bonus, the right software will handle all of the boring automated stuff while you're free to let your creativity take flight.
- Experiment With Different Styles
It's easy to fall into familiar patterns when you've been doing something for a long time. If you feel like your designs are becoming too boring or too similar, it's time to break out of your shell and try something new. Go crazy with colors; flip your typical layouts upside down and inside out; erase your old templates and start from scratch. You never know when you'll stumble onto your new trademark.
- Enforce Deadlines
Have you ever noticed that your best ideas come at the eleventh hour? It's no coincidence; it's the way the human brain works. You can deliberately harness this energy by setting and enforcing self-imposed deadlines that force your mind to work under time constraints. Instead of being a free-willed artist, you'll be a disciplined one, and your work will improve because of it.
- Ask for Input
Don't be afraid to ask others for feedback. It doesn't matter if you're soliciting the opinions of clients, friends or random web users; in fact, getting advice from multiple sources is better than getting it from one. Just make sure that you actually listen to the suggestions that you're given. If everyone agrees that pink text on a red background is horrible, don't argue with them.
The world of web design expands by the day, and if you aren't careful, it's easy to get swept away in the tide. Use these tips to ensure that you're always on the cutting edge of technology and style.
