Considering your audience

The first step towards effective page design is a clear understanding of your audience. Some of the points you should consider before beginning your page design are listed below:

Where will my document be read?

Physical environment is an important consideration; e.g. natural or artificial lighting, in a factory, at a desk in front of a computer with limited space. These factors should influence your choice of page and print size, binding, and the use of matte or glossy paper.

Who is my reader?

Try to write in a style that is appropriate for your audience and be careful not to use words or pictures that may cause offense.

What is the age of my typical reader?

Small print is difficult for the young or elderly to read. You should avoid it when choosing the size of text intended for these audiences.

How motivated is my reader?

The less motivated your audience, the more visual appeal is necessary to capture their attention.

How easily can my reader pick out the relevant information?

What is the best way to structure the document and present the different levels of headings? Less important headings should be smaller than main headings.

What sort of image do I want to convey?

The image your document conveys, e.g. fun or serious, formal or casual, could make the difference between whether people read it or not.

Take a look at page design in books and magazines to see how the above factors have influenced the design of the different pages.