Continuity
BackgroundContinuity is the idea that there is visual or auditory continuity going from one part of a NewMedia composition to another.
There should be a design rhythm going from page to page or one section of an audio segment to another with consistent style, layout, position and colour. For instance, consider the rhythm and consistency in this web site: the consistent sections, size and position of headers, style of focal quotes, position of columns, etc.
InteractivityThere should be consistency in how a user engages with an interactive NewMedia element. If it is a website one would expect navigational buttons to be in the same location on each page. The repetition of menu items is a good thing. It makes navigation more predictable and reduces the confusion caused by different interface elements on each new page. Note how the buttons at the end of this page always go to the next logical topic.
CautionsThe dark side of consistency is that it can become tiresome. A multi-page design with the same tone on every page is quickly ignored, so one has to make a judgment call when consistency overrides surprise and gets the viewer's attention.
The rhythm in a NewMedia project should have variations and visual interest to keeps the viewer engaged and direct them how to feel. |
PurposePeople look for patterns and there is cognitive efficiency when one can anticipate what is coming.
TechniqueWhen designing pages, start with a sketch of the layout and then convert that to a digital wireframe and then play with it and see what works.
For video, consider the movement from one scene to another in terms of continuity. For instance, avoid too many different transitions; it will distract and leave the viewer confused. The author created a video on flowing water and used the continuity elements to go from one section to another. For instance, notice the standardized headings on the lower third of the frame; in addition, a dissolve was a standard transition between major segments, while cuts signify changes within the segments. |