Design Rationale

This section provides a rationale as to why obvious elements of the website have been designed the way they have been designed. It discusses the methods and theories that have been breached, not yet implemented or need explanation.

Information Design
The flowchart below is an example of information planning for this website in particular. It provides access routes to all pages of the website in a simple, categorised fashion, providing the least amount of depth to avoid confusion and disorientation.

Globalisation
This has not been addressed to its full potential, but will be in later stages of development. However, the colour scheme that has been selected is an attempt to provide a neutral colour that does not clash with many cultures.

Colour
A blue monochromatic colour scheme has been applied to the website as it provides a neutral foundation to the websites target audience.

Typography
The typographic elements of the website involve the use of the sans-serif font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, providing a cleaner, crisper look for the user.

GOMS Technique
The navigational structure of this website provides a simple and low level structure that does not require repetitive clicking to return home to be able to select a different topic. It provides all the links in one section (left navigation bar) to allow the user to develop a mental model of the website.

Usability Testing
The usability tests that have been conducted involved several occasions of usage by peers, however, formal tests were conducted, involving participants of different backgrounds. The tests involved the two methods, Think Aloud Protocol and the Question Asking Protocol. For a detailed report on the Usability Tests [click here].

Analysing Test Results
After the two methods of user testing were conducted, it became apparent that the use of breadcrumbs confused the user, rather than clarified the location. The breadcrumbs have been removed, and the users location made very obvious, indicated with the left hand navigation menu highlighting the users location.