Figma - Why developers should embrace creative coding again | Figma
The speaker reflects on the evolution of web development, noting that it was once a creative and exploratory skill that allowed developers to enhance their skills and create unique websites. Over time, the focus shifted towards business needs, leading to more standardized and template-driven websites. However, recent advancements in browser technology have sparked a quiet revolution, enabling more functionality and consistency across platforms. This has opened up new possibilities for creativity and differentiation in web design. The tools necessary for building more expressive and creative websites are now available, and developers are encouraged to utilize them to push boundaries and explore new forms of creativity.
Key Points:
- Web development was initially a creative skill for skill enhancement and exploration.
- The focus shifted to business needs, leading to standardized, template-driven websites.
- Recent browser advancements have increased functionality and consistency.
- New opportunities for creativity and differentiation in web design are now available.
- Developers are encouraged to use new tools to create expressive and boundary-pushing websites.
Details:
1. 🌟 Rediscovering the Art of Web Coding
1.1. Evolution of Web Coding
1.2. Reviving Creative Web Development
2. 📉 The Rise of Template-based Design
- Template-based design has become prevalent in web development due to its cost-effectiveness and efficiency.
- While templates can speed up development processes, they often restrict creativity and limit opportunities for developers to enhance their skills.
- The focus on templates is largely driven by business goals, prioritizing quick and predictable outcomes over innovative designs.
- Historically, web development was more exploratory, allowing for unique and custom solutions, but the trend has shifted towards standardization through templates.
- For instance, a company adopting template-based design might see a reduction in development time but at the cost of potential innovation and brand differentiation.
3. 🔄 Changing Dynamics in Web Design Philosophy
- Initially, web design was constrained by early coding practices, forcing designers to work within significant limitations and shaping the web design philosophy of that era.
- Technological advancements such as HTML5, CSS3, and responsive design frameworks have allowed designers to move away from rigid templates, fostering more creative and innovative design approaches.
- The adoption of JavaScript libraries and tools like Bootstrap and React have also significantly contributed to the flexibility and creativity in modern web design.
4. 🚀 Embracing a New Creative Web Era
- Web browsers have significantly improved, leading to enhanced functionality and consistency that enable new heights of creativity on the web.
- Websites are now platforms for unique and boundary-pushing creativity, allowing developers to express themselves in innovative ways.
- Tools such as Webflow and Figma are instrumental in building more expressive websites, offering capabilities for intricate design and animation without needing extensive coding skills.
- Examples of creative websites include Awwwards winners, which showcase innovative use of design and technology, demonstrating the potential of modern web development tools.