tips

The most important rules of web design

Keep it simple – Simplicity and minimalism are making serious inroads in modern design in everything from houses to furniture. Web design is no difference. A simple and uncluttered website is easier to navigate, and keeps viewers for longer. An easier to use website can also mean more sales.

Consistency is key – Every part of your site should follow the same look-and-feel. You do not want your visitors to see different concepts when they visit a different part of your site unless the change is intentional, like a landing page, or mini-site.

Easy navigation – Getting navigation right on a multi-category multi-page website is not easy, but is one of the more important parts of the design. The navigation also determines how you categorize pages for SEO and SEM, and how you interlink between content. A lot depends on your structure, so experiment with different models and you arrive with what feels right.

Responsiveness – Most web traffic is now on mobile or non-pc screens, so design your website so that it renders correctly on screens of all sizes. It should look good on mobiles, large mobiles, tablets, laptops, desktops, and high dpi displays.

Quality content – The phrase content is king rings true for a reason. If you get all the points above correct, have the best product, but have horrible content, you will not sell anything. Content is the most important component of your website, and should get the most attention.

Article by Rack Alley. Host your website, or your own servers at their premium tier one Los Angeles data center, and enjoy amazing service and performance.

tips

Data center cooling best practices

Data center cooling and temperature management standards changed recently that set the recommended maximum temperature at 24 degrees. By increasing the maximum temperature for a data center, operators are now free to use a wider range of cooling systems. Here is a high-level look at some data center best practices

Baselines

Take stock of the total load in kilowatts of equipment in the data center. Also, measure and record the temperature at the point of intake and exhaust of the middle and top of each rack. Indicate the location and the time of day of each measurement. The temperature and cooling load we record will form the baseline for future comparison. Note the RPM and the internal temperature of servers and other equipment that proves that information.

Improve airflow

Improving the air flow from the cold to the hot aisle should take priority over any immediate temperature changes. Racks without any electrical load should have sealed plates in front, while racks with running equipment should have perforated tiles in front of the rack. Seal any cable holes in the raised floor and use blanking plates to prevent cold air escaping to the hot aisle.

Cooling

With the proper baselines and optimized airflow, adjust the temperature of the cooling units. Increase the temperature one degree every week and monitor how it affects the intake temperature. As a contingency for hot days, keep portable air conditioners ready to assist the primary cooling systems. Once the data center reaches the target temperature, check the fan RPM to ensure that the reduce cooling does not result in increased power draw from internal fans.