graphics

Graphics are an important element on any web site. They can be used to brighten up a page, to provide essential information or as a link to other pages. While there are many advantages to using graphics on a web page, there are also some important rules to follow when using graphics.

Graphics are one of the reasons why web sites take so long to download.

Suggestions for decreasing download times include:

• restricting the file size of large graphics to 25K
• restricting the number of graphics used on one page
• using thumbnail images and links to full sized pictures if there are a large number of graphics on one page
• keeping the combined file size of all graphics on one page to less than 60K.
  

When scanning images to use on the web site, set the scanning resolution to less than 100 dpi (dots per inch) as most computer screens display only 72 dpi. Scanning at higher dpi rates doesn't increase the quality of the image; it only increases the size of the image file.

Animated GIF files, while certainly enhancing web pages, can also slow download times if too many are used on a page. Again, try to restrict the size of the files to less than 25K or the combined size of GIF files on a single page to less than 60K.

If proprietary files or software, such as Flash, are used, their associated plug-ins may be required. Provide a conspicuous link to the application's web site (on the page) so that the plug-in can be downloaded and installed.

Return to hints page