Some interesting points gpconnnelly, & I agree with some but does 'font', text size, colour, size & colour of a border etc, etc, not come under 'design'? I think so, but then that is my opinion. Think of those Websites that you leave on the first page; the relevant info may be there but the overall 'design' of the page puts you off!

Saying that 'design' works when it is not noticed can be true; in some cases it means you have got it right, but in others the design NOT being noticed may mean your piece is overlooked for another's whose design simply looks better & is more attractive/easier on the eye. A newspaper has to be designed to ensure the layout works, attracts the eye, and does not muddle or confuse the reader, & depicts the right image. Even if templates are used, every page will not look the same as that would just not attract the reader; this is where design comes in.

Having worked very closely on the new design of our Site, even down to the colour of the hoverlinks, has been very time consuming but at the end of the day being a fashion-selling Site appearances do count; first impressions & all that. This has been designed more on a 'layout' design, to ensure easy use for the customer to browse & purchase; it is a B2C Site. However when we do our B2B Site it will be more of a designed Site & not use 'layouts' thus ensuring that the design does 'stand out!!

...at the end of the day different design is needed for different places.

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