Wed, 10 Mar 2010 16:32:21 +0000

We might not all understand sitemaps, search engine optimization or accessibility functions, but all of us are experts on website design – or so we think. Without question, web design is the first piece of a website that is critiqued by both professional web designers and amateurs alike. As someone that falls into the second category, I tend to say what I like and don’t like, but too often I’m not sure why – I go with my gut. Unfortunately for web designers, this feedback is often shallow and hard to address.

D. Keith Robinson recently wrote an article for Smashing Magazine that helped me think better about how to provide a valuable web design critique and also critique other graphic designs. While written more for designers, the article definitely provides insight for managers, content specialists, social media experts and anyone else who may be part of a web team.

His basic guidelines for constructive web design criticism were:

1. Note your gut reaction, but take time to explore it
2. Learn to articulate your observations and invite being questioned
3. Be specific and offer suggestions
4. Always consider context and audience appropriateness
5. The most important measure of success is how well it meets expectations
6. Subjectivity is fine, as long as it is labeled as such
7. Don’t neglect the content
8. Study the principles used to judge design

As a novice web design critic I would also recommend letting the designer present the concept before offering feedback. Your impression may change greatly if you know the logic behind each design element – there is often a lot of thought put into each detail. And designers, be patient with us novices, but also recognize that we are often a good representation of how your target audience will initially react.

Take a look at the full article and start being smarter about critiquing web design!

With an online IT degree, you can apply for great jobs in the IT or computer arena like testing the newest software and learning the latest programs. After graduation, here is a partial list of some of the most sought after occupations: Interface designer ,Systems analyst, Computer programmer,Network Administrator, Database administrator,Software Support , Software engineer, omputer engineer.

Many companies today depend on people who have technological expertise. Thus, a degree in information technology not only leads to a rewarding job, businesses will come looking for you. Each of these careers is rewarding and necessary, as more and more companies are in need of those who can use this technology to further their businesses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, the majority of programmers have a degree in Computer Science or related area of expertise. So, it stands to reason that a technological degree will greatly improve your chances of finding an enjoyable and enviable career.

What education will you receive with an online IT degree?

A computer science online degree will prepare you for a career in IT, Computer Security or any of the above positions in the same way as a traditional classroom degree. But instead of having to go to class, rearrange your work schedule, or disturb other areas of your life, you can take classes online, study at your convenience and not have to worry about the added costs of parking or leaving work early to attend classes. When you take online courses, you can expect to learn any of the following and more: Hardware and software design, Software development, Troubleshooting, Networking Data Security, Database management, Web design, Develop security plans.

As companies continue to grow and advance in the technological age, specialized departments are often necessary keep the businesses up and running, including maintaining open lines of communication with consumers and employees. Companies geared toward manufacturing and computers need talented individuals with expertise in developing new software and hardware to keep up with consumer needs and desires. With so many options, IT students will need to discover their niche of particular interest.

How to choose an online IT degree

First, where do you see yourself five years from now; what information technology degree will get you there? When making the determination, bear in mind the job market. Some computer related occupations like information security and support are on the rise, while the need for programmers is decreasing.

Once again referring to the most recent edition of the Occupational Outlook Handbook, the coming years should continue to see a rise in the need for support personnel by approximately 13%. When deciding on the best career options, make certain the online college of choice is accredited, determine your technological strengths and interests, decide whether to get a degree encompassing many areas of technology or hone in on one area of expertise. Finally, make sure to select a program most likely to ensure employment right out of college.

Earning a degree in computer science or one of the many disciplines listed above can help you advance your career in one of the hottest fields today. There are many opportunities for employment once you graduate. While some fields as not a plentiful as others, your chances of finding employment are increased if you have a college degree in Computer Science or IT.

Find helpful information on accredited distance learning colleges and online bachelor degrees colleges.