Whew! We’re in the final days of 2023, and as everyone looks back on the last 12 months, many are probably thinking, “What did I do this year?” (At least that’s what I’m asking myself!) So, in honor of this brief moment of reflection, here are the top four takeaways related to web development that I’ll bring with me into the new year:
1. Design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s also about understanding user behavior.
A well-studied approach to design can make all the difference. There is a wealth of insights derived from behavioral science and data to help us understand how target audiences perceive specific design elements. In fact, our agency has embraced grounding rationale in behavioral science across various facets, from designs to copywriting, over the past year. Here are some links to our top recommendations for reading up on this subject:
Nudge → https://www.nudgepodcast.com/
Nudgestock → https://www.instagram.com/nudgestock/
Dan Ariely → https://danariely.com/
Choiceology → https://www.schwab.com/learn/choiceology
2. Social media can be a goldmine of inspiration.
I’ve stepped up my late-night doom-scrolling habits by curating a feed that fuels my creativity. Instead of following mind-numbing meme pages, I follow artists I admire and have a style I want to pursue. After all, creativity knows no bounds, and inspiration can strike at the unlikeliest times and places. Here are some profiles I’ve been enjoying:
https://www.instagram.com/jessicavwalsh/
https://www.instagram.com/monachalabi/
https://www.instagram.com/jermcohen/
https://www.instagram.com/pentagramdesign/
https://www.instagram.com/hugeinc/
3. Embracing AI isn’t the end of the industry
In 2023, we overcame a lot of the initial reluctance towards artificial intelligence (AI). Come to find out, it’s helpful for its time-saving capabilities by streamlining processes, as well as its ability to further inspire creative types like myself. Striking a balance between AI’s efficiency and real human expertise will be paramount in moving forward with this technology (it’s definitely not a replacement). Still, it can be a great tool to incorporate into your workflow.
4. Remember to have fun!
Balancing professionalism with a light-hearted approach can turn the most challenging projects into an enjoyable process. Therefore, my last and final takeaway for this year is remembering to have a good time even during a deadline! Some of the most fun campaigns I’ve admired have quickly turned into my all-time favorites this year:
• “Fat Bear Week,” National Park Service –> https://www.nps.gov/katm/learn/fat-bear-week.htm
• “Dumb Ways To Die,” Metro Trains Melbourne –> https://www.dumbwaystodie.com/
• Duolingo x Dua Lipa –> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0LPe5cCfa6Q
So, without further ado, here’s to a new year filled with incredible tools, worthwhile inspiration, and FUN!
––
Pablo Ruiz de Chavez, Web Developer
