In class, we learned about the benefits of designing a website that is immersive. I decided to look at some examples to gain inspiration for my current project on the Apollo Space Program.
Axes of rock
This is the home screen of this website that sells guitars. It has well-illustrated guitars moving vertically up through the screen. Most of the guitars are at the sides so you can still read the text and you can always click the call-to-action button. I think this is a nice welcome to a website as it’s different and will capture the user’s attention. The illustrations are of great quality and the overall tone portrays that they are reliable and trustworthy. It gives the users something to look at and is more interesting than just having static images of the guitars like most websites would. This has made me consider having a continuous movement like this somewhere on my website. However, it’s important to not make it too distracting or annoying for users.
Big Apple hot-dogs
This website is for a company that sells hot dogs. They have a section giving information on the different kinds of hot dogs they sell. Each illustration smoothly transitions into the next as you scroll down. I like this as it leads users effortlessly through the website in an engaging way. I also like how they used illustrations for the hot dogs rather than real pictures as it is more fun and ties in with their brand.
2020 year in review
This is what you are met with when you enter this site. The numbers bounce in from the top and the users can move them around with their mouse. This is all happening while the website is loading so it keeps users occupied. The jumbled numbers set the tone for the chaotic year they are talking about.
As you scroll down, it gives you some interesting facts. I like the big typography as it stands out and it is the full length of the screen. There are gifs that appear and move across which may be entertaining for users. However, if I was to do something like this, I would either avoid it or keep it to a minimum as it can become distracting or annoying for users.
The “Time Equities” text has an engaging transition. The white colour fills in the letters as you scroll down which I like. I may consider taking this concept into my project as I think it’s visually appealing.
If the moon were only 1 pixel
This website allows users to scroll through space to the scale if the moon were only 1 pixel. I think it’s an interesting website and a great way to educate people on space instead of just having text. It really puts into perspective how big space is and makes users feel like they are on a journey. I like how they have pieces of text in between the planets as it encourages users to keep scrolling.
If you click this button, it moves the screen for you. It then gives you interesting facts. This is a great way to keep users engaged.
It also gives users options on how fast they want to move through the website. This allows users to go at their own pace, feel in control and enhance the user experience.
SpaceX
I really like the illustration of the rocket as it is similar to what I want to do for my project. As you scroll down, the outline of the rocket fills in. I like this as it is almost like it’s showing you a drawing or blueprint and then what it looks like when it’s built. As you read the overview, the rocket slowly turns, showing it from all angles. A simple turning motion is something I could incorporate into my project. I also like how users also have the option to move horizontally to find out more about what they are interested in. This prevents them from having to scroll for a long time through things they aren’t interested in.
I also love all the imagery throughout the website. They are all high quality and visually aesthetic.
I have enjoyed looking at all the different ways you can make your website immersive. This has shown me that even simple movements and transitions can make a huge difference to the experience a user has on your website. I think it’s a great way of connecting with your users and attracting new ones. It will also encourage people to revisit your site if it is enjoyable to use.