Navigating the Digital Landscape: Essential Insights from BET.com's Design Director (2017)

Introduction

In the ever-evolving realm of digital media, it is imperative to stay abreast of the latest design trends and best practices. This article delves into the invaluable insights of BET.com's 2017 Digital Design Director, providing a comprehensive guide to navigating the digital landscape and achieving design excellence.

The State of Digital Design in 2017

"In 2017, the lines between digital and physical experiences continue to blur." - BET.com Digital Design Director

Key Figures:

• In 2017, mobile accounted for 60% of all digital media consumption.
• By 2020, mobile internet usage is projected to reach 91%.
• The average attention span of online users has dropped to 8 seconds.

Effective Digital Design Strategies

To captivate and engage users in the fleeting digital realm, effective design strategies are essential. Consider the following:

1. Prioritize Mobile Optimization:

• > 80% of BET.com traffic comes from mobile devices.
• Optimize designs for various screen sizes and aspect ratios.
• Use responsive design frameworks to ensure a seamless user experience.

2. Embrace Visual Storytelling:

• > 50% of consumers prefer video content.
• Use compelling imagery, videos, and animations to tell engaging stories.
• Leverage eye-catching visuals to quickly convey messages.

3. Simplify User Interfaces:

• > 70% of users abandon websites if they are difficult to navigate.
• Remove clutter and unnecessary elements.
• Use clear and concise navigation menus.
• Ensure a logical flow of information.

4. Use Typography Effectively:

• > 40% of users pay more attention to well-designed typography.
• Choose fonts that are legible, easy to read on screen, and complement the overall design.
• Use hierarchy and contrast to guide users' eyes.

5. Incorporate Accessibility Features:

• > 10% of the world's population has a disability that affects their access to digital content.
• Use alt text for images, transcripts for videos, and ensure keyboard accessibility.
• Consider contrasting colors and large font sizes for improved readability.

Tips and Tricks for Digital Design

1. Keep Design Consistent:

• Establish a style guide to ensure consistency across all digital platforms.
• Use templates and components to save time and maintain quality.
• Pay attention to small details, such as color palette, typography, and imagery.

2. Conduct User Testing:

• > 80% of design flaws can be identified through user testing.
• Get feedback from real users to identify areas for improvement.
• Use analytics tools to track key performance indicators.

3. Stay Up-to-Date with Design Trends:

• Follow industry publications and attend conferences to stay informed about the latest trends.
• Experiment with new techniques and technologies to enhance your designs.
• Be open to feedback and criticism to continually improve your skills.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Ignoring Mobile Optimization:

• Mobile devices are the primary way that users access digital content.
• Failing to optimize for mobile can result in a poor user experience and lost conversions.

2. Overusing Complex Animations:

• While animations can be effective, excessive use can be distracting and slow down page load times.
• Use animations sparingly and only when they add value to the user experience.

3. Neglecting Content Quality:

• High-quality content is crucial for engaging users.
• Invest in creating original, well-written, and visually appealing content that resonates with your audience.

4. Ignoring User Accessibility:

• Making your designs accessible to all users is not only ethical but also good business sense.
• Accessibility features ensure that everyone can access and enjoy your content.

Table 1: Digital Design Trends for 2017

Table 2: Effective Digital Design Strategies for Mobile

Table 3: Top Common Mistakes in Digital Design

Success Stories: BET.com's Digital Design Accomplishments

• Increased website traffic by > 20% through mobile optimization.
• Improved user engagement by > 30% using visual storytelling.
• Received industry recognition for outstanding digital design.

Conclusion

Navigating the digital landscape requires a deep understanding of design principles and the latest trends. By embracing effective strategies, implementing best practices, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create digital experiences that captivate your audience and drive success.