The goal of this article is to illustrate that the design of web based media must contain psychological considerations alongside computer design aspects. Designers of web based instruction need to carefully consider the effects of the uses of color, sound, images, positioning of information, and others in creating an effective interface. Rajani and Rosenberg ask if the design of an instructional interface can be approached within a single, uniform scientific framework?

    Is it a surprise that our authors suggest a preferability of less complex design? Some would think so. Other studies help support their "less complex" findings. Also, users must be able to find information easily because they are apt not to spend much time at a particular site. Our authors found that "banner blindness" is real where most users, at first, will ignore navigational banners that could help in finding information easier.

    Rajani and Rosenberg found that users look at the appearance of a page to help orient them and most users look at the bottom of web pages for links. Other findings suggest users tend to be in the "now"; not being able to remember what was contained three or four web pages ago. Simple page layout is preferred to help in identifying information easier. Users are interested in technology but not if it impedes progress in searching for information. And finally, users like predictability. For instance, a sudden or unexpected sound can be annoying and distracting.

    Rajani and Rosenberg do an excellent job of deciphering the information on a very important subject of web site usability. I have questions concerning the research whether subjects used in the studies were all technophobes or technology efficient. This, I believe, is an important element of a valid study concerning most uses of the computer online. Although, I feel through my own experience that findings presented here do represent the present situations in web based design. It seems that our authors quest of a single framework to solve usability problems may indeed be possible.