“Form follows function.”
Form follows function is a principle associated with modern architecture and industrial design in the 20th century. The principle is that the shape of a building or object should be primarily based upon its intended function or purpose. This could also be applied in web development. If the form of a Web site becomes a goal in itself, instead of a means to an end, the Web site will not work. What good is the design if it does not compliment with the site’s function, right? Web designers apply their creativity to their designs but should always bear in mind that the Web is a different medium where content and interaction are far more important than pure form.
Your creativity may sometimes be limited with these restrictions especially when client specifications are provided, but learning to be flexible and by being professional about it will make clients easier to work with. I had worked with some great designers before who not only made creative designs but also looked on how it affects the user’s experience as well as the client’s business. These are the people who inspire me to venture also in web design and apply what I have learned. Hopefully I would be able to enhance my skills and continue to design and build functional websites.
Now, would you agree on this quote or do you have something else in mind? Share your thoughts.
Louis Sullivan was an American architect, and has been called the “father of skyscrapers” and “father of modernism”.
