A well thought out design strategy is the foundation for a successful website. From front to back, the concept for a site has to be purposeful and intelligent, with an eye toward the future of the web. Tim & Erin are ready to share the insights they’ve gained from their experience, and provide practical solutions to common site design queries.

1. presents
BLOG DESIGN STRATEGY
in coordination with
CONFLUENCE CONFERENCE

2. define
BLOG DESIGN STRATEGY
A design strategy is a plan that helps structure
your blog in the best possible way,
functionally & aesthetically.

3. define
digital touchpoint
A digital touchpoint is any opportunity you
provide for your audience to interact with your
brand online.
Your design strategy should be entirely focused on
creating an online experience that represents your
brand as authentically as possible.

4. A website, no matter it’s function, is comprised of layers.
These layers exist to frame & promote the content of the site.

5. No. 1
create strategy based on content
Define your content type.
Define how the audience should interact
with your content.

6. Content Types
1. Informational, Editorial, Journal
Text Heavy, Interspersed Images, Pull Quotes, Links
2. Tutorial, Portfolio, Curatorial
Image Heavy, Captions, Credits Sources, Links, Video
3. Promotional, Commentary, Reviews
Link Heavy, Combination Text/Images, Video, Credits Sources

7. No. 2
CHOOSE YOUR PLATFORM WISELY
Your blogging platform needs to be:
Versatile
Customizable
Independent
Responsive

8. Top 3 Blog Platforms
1. WordPress, Self-Hosted
Pro: Total Customization | Con: Complex
2. Blogger, Google Hosted
Pro: Easy Breezy | Con: Controlled by Google
3. Tumblr, Yahoo! Hosted
Pro: Mobile Friendly | Con: Limited
Other Options: Squarespace, Type Pad, Medium, Svbtle, Quora, Google+, Facebook

9. No. 3
explore layout options
Classic Columns
Magazine Style
Portfolio
Excerpts

10. define:
responsive web site
A responsive website responds to its environment,
allowing for optimal user experience regardless of device.

11. b est p r act i ces
A successful relationship with your audience
depends on observing the best practices and
standards of website design.
Organization and consistency in your content is
paramount, as is the placement of utilities on your site.

12. No. 4
FRAME YOUR CONTENT
The goal should always be to create a
pleasant & productive experience for your
audience, using the moderate application
of aesthetic choices that in no way
impedes their journey.
- CooperHouse Design Mantra

13. blo g d es i gn t i ps
1. Develop Style Guide
Color Palette, Typography, Design Elements
2. Create Custom Graphics
Header, Icons, Side Bar Extras, Background Images
3. Keep It Simple
The Design Exists In The Details.

14. No. 5
FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION. ALWAys.
Be Purposeful. Be Consistent. Be Authentic.
Make your content excellent.
Make your site easy to use.
Make your design reflect your brand.

15. Learn more:
cooper-house.com