Differences in Web and Print Media Design

Designing a web page as satisfactory as a page out of a newspaper is a difficult task. Space restrictions, typography restrictions, image restrictions and the basic limits of HTML code all hamper the design of any web page. Another limit on web design is that not all readers will be looking at the web page on the same computer, or even on different computers with the same software because computer capabilities and software vary widely from user to user. In the case of print media, the ink is applied to the paper or other media and is static; everyone who looks at that print media is looking at the exact same thing. This allows someone who is designing print media to use complicated fonts, colors, layouts, varying sizes and types of printable media to create a lasting effect. There are however, advantages to web media. Some of these advantages include:

Interactive maps, pictures or other objects
The ability to provide a wider range of information through links
Minimal word use, which saves time and energy
Not restricted to conventions of layout, like newspapers (such as headlines that span the width of the article, etc.)
Saves paper and can be updated

Of course, the web does not yet have the capabilities of print media to present such a striking visual image, but the interactive portions of web design can make up for the lack of visual interest.

These two standards of excellence can be summed up to say that each kind of design, print or web, needs to push the limits of that particular media’s standards and capabilities to truly be excellent. Technology or size restrictions may be a boon to either media, however, consistently pushing the envelope will give cause for the creation of better and more useful technology.