Boxes and Arrows: Comments by Jason Ford

Jason Ford — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 14:53:21 GMT

This would be a very interesting read – I make interactive prototypes in Flash currently, but not everyone who is making wireframes knows how to work in Flash. This approach would probably be more time efficient as well…

Jason Ford — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 14:53:21 GMT

Great article.

To me, the best thing about ambient signifiers is that user’s don’t have to consciously recognize them to accomplish tasks on the site. In other words, since they stay secondary, users who don’t notice the signifiers (consciously or subconsciously) will still be able to go about their business. This independence from functional navigation and wayfinding should be a key qualifier for determining if something is an ambient signifier.

When implemented well, this type of system should not introduce confusion since most users won’t even be aware of it – with the net effect ranging from zero impact to a very positive impact on user experience.

Jason Ford — Fri, 26 Jan 2007 14:53:21 GMT

While it sounds like it’s been a long complicated process to get where you are now, you have definitely taken the right approach to make the CMS and design changes independently. So many sites try to make those two changes at the same time which is even more of a nightmare!

I’m also glad to hear your bit about focusing on the “Y” – I’m looking forward to watching as the magazine grows and matures.

Jason Ford — Mon, 12 May 2008 17:54:33 GMT

Hmmm…I’m not sure how this whole Ideas section is supposed to work. It seems like I’m supposed to wait from someone from BoxesandArrows to contact me before submitting the article – is that right? Does anyone have any insight into how this process works?