Lesson 1 Project 1
October 9, 2005
Review Assignment
Page 40-41 #7
Compare two band Web sites to see how the information is presented in preparation for planning the new Catalyst Web site. The two band Web sites explored are The Doors' Web site at www.thedoors.com and Pearl Jam's Web site at www.pearljam.com.
7a. What are the similarities and the differences between the sites?
Some similarities between the two sites are that they use graphics and text to get the user's attention. The Doors Web site includes links for downloading music, merchandise, discography, message boards, and band member information. The Pearl Jam Web site offers similar links.
One of the differences between the two sites is that the Pearl Jam site uses a Flash graphic on their home page with the links displayed on it. There is also music playing in the background. There is, however, an option on The Doors site to download iTunes to play some of their music. The Doors site provides links to other bands who have done covers of their music or are involved with the band in some way. The Doors site gives the user the opportunity to view different images by clicking on an animated GIF at the top of the page. Clicking on this changes the main image on the page. Another difference is that the Doors site is designed using tables, while the Pearl Jam site uses Flash and frames.
7b. Which features do you prefer? Why?
I like that Flash is used on the Pearl Jam Web site. Although I do not know how to work with Flash yet, I like sites that use it because I find them to be more interesting and interactive. I like that the Doors site uses animated graphics. This draws attention to the page. I also like that the Pearl Jam added music in the background. Since some people find this annoying, there could have been an option available to turn it off.
7c. Can any of the features from these sites be incorporated into the Catalyst Web site? If so, which features?
I think Flash could be used with the Catalyst Web site. I also think some animations could be used to make the site seem more interesting and more appealing to the eye. Color and animation could be used on the Catalyst site to make it more fun and colorful. Either tables or frames could be used on the Catalyst site to lay out the information.
7d. How would the changes improve the Catalyst site?
Adding more color, images, or animated graphics would make the Catalyst site more interesting and fun. Providing background music could also be an option for this site. Since this is a Web site for a record label, it should be more exciting and interactive.
