As the world turns from print to online news, there is one element of journalism that is unlikely to endure change: the importance of design. Whether it's the front page of the print copy or the homepage of the online site, layout of stories plays a significant role in how readers reach and consume news.
The Binghamton Press & Sun Bulletin grants readers easy access to different forms of content, in an "F-pattern" which capitalizes up on users' search and scroll tendencies. Those seeking breaking news can turn immediately to the left side, as stories are updated by-the-minute with clear links and times. For those interested in deeper, genre specific content, the Bulletin provides multiple options. The top horizontal bar provides search options for each section -- from news, to sports, to business. And for those who choose to scroll pass breaking news, the same sections appear below, with an added featured story to each.
Advertisements are pushed way off to the right, which prevents users from feeling cluttered with forms of content unrelated to news. The use of blue background with white text for section buttons draws attention to those looking to capture more of the story. Breaking news stories are highlighted with traditional blue hyperlinks to highlight immediate local happenings. It satisfies the news cravings of both on-the-run and sit-and-flip readers.
Conversely, The Des Moines Register lacks similar striking colors. It's use of yellow or gray background with white trim gives off a blinding combination. As readers look to enter a section of the online publication, individual scroll bars appear, slowing down the process for readers looking to acquire news quickly. Even if you attempt to click on the section, the site stalls for a few seconds before the command loads.
Users looking to access breaking news quickly will find no clear section beyond the AP Wire column, which is sandwiched at the bottom center between car ads and news from the last seven weeks. Breaking news in sports and entertainment appears on the front page, which seems to be the paper's attempt to capitalize on soft news seekers. As an arrogant New Yorker, I may think nothing is happening in Central Iowa. But for local residents, the lack of direct links to metro news stories is cumbersome. Readers looking for a jigsaw puzzle? This is your site.
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