As a minimalist, I prefer straightforward, non-myspace-like webs. This version is very clean and professional - navigation options are clear for someone brand new to the ASU site. The imagery potential is excellent and yet won't overshadow the information. The large, uncluttered links invite exploration. This is definitely my fav.

The flexibility on the front page could be a good addition. I'm wondering if the maintenance level will be much higher, but I'm not sure what kind of resources will be available for front page maintenance.

I feel like the size of the text in the left column could be reduced a bit. Also, the more noticeable "sign on" button is a plus, but it's in a bit of an awkward spot there.

Is this designed to be a fluid or a fixed layout? I'm usually not a big fan of fluid layouts, but I think this one could work as either and still be elegant.

Overall, I would say it's "in a good way." :)

This version lends itself to showcase the greatest amount of information with ease, while giving a sense of location in the site in a unique manner. This is my fav.

I like this design the best...it seems cleaner, bright, fresh, non-cluttered...I especially like the 2nd from the top. Some of the designs that used maroon made the page kind of dark, didn't seem to 'pop' as much and the text had to compete for my eye. I like how the rollover info kind of merges with the photo but I'm not completely sold on the arrow part of the left button. I think rollovers kind of speak for themselves (when you roll over them the text box to the right changes so you know there is new info) so the directional may not be necessary...it definitely directs your eye but it almost forces me to look at that area only and not the rest of the page. Nice job!

I like the concept of this design. I find the font on the left menu a bit on the large side. Does it have to be Flash-driven? The sign on button needs rethinking both visually and in terms of location. Is it really only Academics that you sign on to? Where would the sign on take you? I know there is a sign on link at the top, but there must be a better place for a second button.

From e-mail: “Round 1: Version B” is my fav. Big, bold use of graphics. Easy to follow nav. Nice.

My nits:

• I’d like to see even fewer links between the graphic and the footer. I really think we have to be very picky about what links are on the portal page. Couldn’t some of those links be moved to the nav sections? “Prospective students” and “Current students” to the Students section, for example. Or maybe make that whole section a drawer so you have the option of hiding it or seeing it.

• I think “Academics,” “Alumni,” and “Visitors” might be nav button worthy. (Academics might replace University.)

• An “About ASU” link to another section (either in the nav/graphic or another page) could hold the “New American University” and other links.

• I wish we had a rotating news headline banner like Apple uses on their site, rather than a static list. A little subtle animation is nice. It makes the news look like it’s always fresh (no matter how long it’s been sitting there.) Has a link to the full list of stories. Coupled with an RSS feed would be hot.

• I’m confused by the “Sign On” button/feature. Who can sign on? Anyone? Even non-ASU people? If so, how would they know it’s for them? If only for ASU people, I think keep the link at top and lose the button on the portal. Maybe move it to the Student and/or Faculty section for the truly clueless that don’t see it at the top. And a “carpets and rugs” question perhaps, but does “sign on,” “sign in,” “logon,” login” mean the same thing?

• Missing an “employment” or “jobs” link. Perhaps in the “About” or “Community” page.

From e-mail: I like Version B the best – clean, simple design and easy to navigate.