Nicole Russo - Favorite Websites

Today, there isn't much you can't find on the web. Having internet access means also having access to a wide array of information from varying websites. Out of the millions of websites on the worldwide web, Life.com and Takepart.com are two of my favorite.

Life was a popular American general-interest magazine published from 1883 until 1936. Life.com shares stories that were in Life magazine, as well as other material from Life journalists that was never published. I think Life.com is a great website because it has a purpose that is clear to website viewers, which is the use of photojournalism to communicate historical stories. The website has a very simple, clean design with a black background and white font, which ties in with the nostalgic focus of the website. There are five tabs at the top of the site and then one main story, followed by other featured stories underneath. This layout allows for visitors to easily navigate the website. Life.com not only has some of the most amazing journalistic photographs, but also has plenty of depth with articles ranging from past politics, crime, and iconic legends. The language of the articles is very conversational, allowing viewers to easily be able to read and obtain the information.

Takepart.com is a website that creates content about social issues and people or groups who are helping to better the world. While Takepart.com has a lot of information that viewers can access, their specific focus on social issues makes it a unique browsing experience. The web layout also allows for easy navigation because there are 6 different sub headers and a “Don’t Miss” link that helps readers navigate all the information the site has to offer. The website has a “Take Action” sidebar that allows viewers to share the story on various social media sites, as well as a link to outside sites where viewers can learn more about the issue or even sign a petition. Additionally, there is a comment section that allows for viewers to become engaged and discuss the story. The articles are written in the traditional print journalism style with conversational language, a lead, and an eye-catching title.

            Life.com and Takepart.com have unifying themes with an abundance of underlying topics, clear designs, and concise writing that make them both great websites.