Web 2.0 Design: When To Use It

For starters, what do people mean when they say web 2.0 design? How
does it differ from traditional web design?

In general, web 2.0 refers to the modern day website’s approach to
things. Yes to interaction. No to stagnant information. Yes to active
participation. No to passive observation.

To be more specific, web 2.0 design is all about the modern and
usually takes on an adventurous approach to aesthetics. So does this
mean that we should all convert to web 2.0 design? Read on to find
out when to use web 2.0 design.

When Your Target Audience is Young or Young at Heart

If you’re an online magazine that mainly caters to senior citizens
(the type who don’t really update themselves), then perhaps you
should just stick to traditional web design.

On the other hand, if your target audience consists of those who are
young, forward-thinking or young at heart, then by all means, go with
web 2.0 design! This is your chance to be adventurous with texture
and ideas!

When Your Product is Modern

If your product or your content is quite modern, it makes sense to
show that same characteristic on your website as well. A website is
basically the extension of your product.

If your product is edgy and cool, using a conservative design might
prove to be counter productive and a waste of a good branding
opportunity.

When You Want to Stand Out

Web 2.0 design brings something new to the table. If you want to
stand out and grab everyone’s attention, go with web 2.0 design.
People will admire your originality and design wit. Just make sure
that your design is still aesthetically pleasing though, and not just
there for shock value.

There is much to admire in web 2.0 design. However, that doesn’t
mean traditional web design is dead. In fact, there are some cases
when these two design concepts even meld into one another. There is
no right or wrong. It all boils down to what you want.