p1 - design: Th3 W3b Th3n & N0w // Tim3 Trav3l Thr0ugh D35ign -- DESN 368

DESN 368

p1 — Design: Th3 W3b Th3n & N0w // Tim3 Trav3l Thr0ugh D35ign

Web Design Fundamentals · Spring 2026

Required

Overview

You'll analyze how a frequently used website has evolved by comparing its earliest archived version with its current version. Identify design, UX, and product changes and connect them to broader web trends.

Instructions

Select a website
- Choose a site you visit regularly.
- If the earliest snapshot is broken, use the earliest working snapshot and note it.
Use the Wayback Machine
- Go to https://archive.org/web and find the earliest available version of your site.
- Record the snapshot date.
Capture screenshots
- Take clear screenshots of both the earliest and current versions.
- Note: You'll likely need several screenshots stitched together before uploading to Milanote.
Create your Milanote column
- Open the class board: https://app.milanote.com/1V3fby1aK1hIbj?p=jHMkPcMB5W4.
- Create a board titled with your name.
- Upload the screenshots side by side.
Write the analysis (≈2 paragraphs, ~250–350 words total)
- Compare design elements (color, type, layout, imagery), navigation/IA, interactions/animations, content tone, and functionality.
- Discuss UX changes: what got easier/harder, clearer/denser, faster/slower?
- Identify at least two current web trends visible now (e.g., responsive grids, sticky headers, dark mode, system fonts, micro-interactions, privacy/UI patterns).
- Close with a short reflection: what does this evolution suggest about the company and where it's going next?
Add a details card (separate note)
- Site/company name
- Earliest snapshot date (Wayback)
- Today's date
- URL of the current site
- 1–2 sentences on why you chose this site

Guiding Questions (Optional)

How have color, typography, and layout changed?
What new features or functionality were introduced?
How has the user experience shifted or improved?
Which current web design trends are evident now?
How do the changes reflect the company's evolution or target audience?

Reflection Prompt

How does this site's evolution mirror broader trends in web technology and design? Where might it go next, and what emerging technologies or design trends could shape future iterations?

Submit in Canvas