Is This C.R.A.P or just Crap

The Acronym C.R.A.P represents as seen above, contrast, repetition, alignment, and proximity. These four elements determine the difference between an easily understood and navigated website and a difficult and confusing website. Contrast is making differing points very different in appearance to distinguish them from each other. Repetition is repeating the same style through out the page for ease of navigation. Alignment is the connection of all elements to another element to avoid things standing out alone. Proximity is the grouping together of like things and leaving space between dissimilar items to show their differences.

Through the use of these four design factors, a website is easier to navigate for everyone from the network administrator to the first time visitor. I'm sure all of us have happened onto websites that are hard to understand how to get to where we want to go or hard to find the information we are looking for. Websites such as these can deter us from using them again and encourage us to find other sources for the information we are seeking if available. On the other hand properly designed pages encourage us to use them again because of the ease it takes to navigate to our desired area or information. Through the proper use of the four above mentioned aspects in website design, the designer greatly effects the reaction of the visitors to his site in the future.  So always remember, use C.R.A.P if you want people to enjoy your websites in the future.