In web design, graphics are any visual elements that are not just a text. Graphics also include any texts that is organized and illustrated with the help of such visual elements. Thus, graphics include:
Aims of the graphics
The main aim of any graphic elements is to enhance the user experience. Besides that, graphics allow making a text more diverse and completed or even substituting it all together. Internet is not only about delivering texts and information in its purest form, but also about creativity, data visualization and the adaptation of information for the needs of different target audiences. These principles make graphics an essential part of any website.
Graphics in business
Graphics are important for any business, as they are able to both entertain, educate and emotionally influence customers. This is widely used in strengthening the public image of businesses. Thus, for example, certain colours and shapes can be associated with certain companies. The logotypes of famous brands are recognizable even when not containing any actual names. It could be said that it is almost impossible to create a successful corporate image without the extensive use of graphics.
Types of graphics
Any graphics element can categorized according to its primary function:
- illustrations - visually describe ideas and depict objects. Illustrations enhance texts with the images of real-life objects, which help users in relating the information given with their personal experience. This type of graphics include photos, images, etc.
- visualizers - visualize numbers and statistical data on certain topics. Data visualization allows comparing such data and seeing how they interact. This type of graphics allow depicting complex information in an easily comprehensible way. Thus, it is easier for clients to understand the thought of a website. Visualizers include infographics, diagrams, tables, etc.
- analyzers and organizers - depict the causation and logics of processes. This type of graphics illustrate complex processes in a simple and understandable way, showing how certain events/ideas are precursors to other events, and how they constitute a unified system. This type of graphics can be used in explaining complex, difficult services, showing the meaning of each action. Analyzers and organizers include infographics, schemes, etc.
- symbols - represent organizations, functions, website sections or any other elements or ideas. Usually symbols are quite simple - they are developed in a way that would be understandable to any audience. They include logotypes, icons, etc.