Serif or not to Serif
I found this article awhile back regarding the use of sans serif and serif fonts.
http://www.alexpoole.info/academic/literaturereview.html
Although sans-serif fonts are widely regarded in its use in webby stuff, that doesn’t mean that a serif font can’t work as well toward building highly legible sites.
The conclusion is obvious – use type appropriately based on your needs.
Other useful references:
- http://www.asktog.com/readerMail/2000-01ReaderMail.html#Anchor8
- http://www.ilovetypography.com
- http://www.sitepoint.com/blogs/2008/07/30/custom-web-fonts-pick-your-poison/
- http://www.likewowonline.net/web/ued/sifr-usability-study.html
Other issues regarding font-use:
- legibility vs. readability
- dyslexia / accessibility
- aesthetics
- technical boundaries
- custom fonts
- internationalization
boon :: Feb.11.2009 :: typography :: 2 Comments »
There are so many conflicting studies that trying to rationalise serif or sans- purely on the grounds of usability has become futile. As you say, the face should be chosen that best illustrates the text, and as such is a decision rooted in the realm of typography.
There’s also the platform to consider. Different browsers, anti-aliasing technologies and so on render text very differently, which to me is even less reason to adopt a generalised preference for a particular style of type.
HI Boon
Thanks for the links. I will be checking them out. Much appreciated! Stumbled onto your blog as I was checking out my Technorati reactions and found your blog.