Online shopping tips, typography basics

Riches Communications Newsletter

Issue 7, June 2003

In this issue:

- Online shopping tips
- Typography basics
- Other web sites of interest

Online shopping tips

Online shopping continues to grow and become more accepted by consumers. With any credit card purchase there are risks involved, even in traditional retail stores. However, there are several things you should be aware of to protect yourself against online fraud.

A reputable online store will use what is known as an SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) certificate to encrypt all information that passes between your web browser and the server you are transacting with. Your web browser will show a small padlock icon in the status bar and the URL will begin with ‘https’ if the web page you are viewing is via SSL (usually once you start the ordering process). Your browser may also show a pop-up window to confirm that you are moving into a secure area of a web site. If you input your credit card number at any stage, an SSL certificate on the web site is a must (not as necessary if the payment phase uses bank transfer or a cheque).

In addition to an SSL certificate, you should check that the online store is a registered business in the country it operates from. You should be able to find standard contact details such as phone and fax numbers on the site. Emails should be answered promptly during business hours (although allow 24 hours due to time zone differences). Also look at the overall design of the site - does it instil confidence in you, does it appear to be reliable?

An online store should also have a section detailing its policies on shipping and handling, refunds and returned goods. There will usually be a range of shipping options and possibly an option to purchase insurance for more valuable items. Be aware that shipping times can be slow from overseas so be patient (some stores provide the ability to track your package on the internet via the shipping company’s web site). When your order is completed be sure to record the receipt number and print out any confirmation emails you receive.

Some popular online stores:

Amazon : originally an online book store but now sells DVDs, electronic equipment and more

Dell : custom build your own computer

L.L. Bean : clothing and accessories for the outdoors

Typography basics

'Typography' relates to the design characteristics of type, either in print or on screen. Two terms to be familiar with are ‘typeface’ and ‘font’. The typeface refers to the characteristic feature of the type, such as Times New Roman. A font is the particular character set of a typeface, such as Times New Roman Italic or Arial Bold.

Serif typefaces have small extensions known as serifs attached to the letter strokes, noticeable on letters such as 'T' and 'L'. Most experts agree that serif typefaces are easier to read where long blocks of text are found, such as in newspapers or books. Common serif typefaces include Times and Palatino.

Sans serif typefaces do not have serifs and have a cleaner, sharper look at larger sizes. They are particularly useful for headings or headlines, but can be appropriate in body text depending on the chosen typeface. At smaller sizes they can be easier to read than serif typefaces (most phone books use sans serif type). Common sans serif typefaces include Arial and Helvetica.

Other typefaces include the script family which can resemble handwriting and 'display' fonts such as Stencil and Comic Sans. These typefaces are generally reserved for emphasis or titles (often seen in wedding invitations or flyers).

For web design, Verdana is a common choice of typeface (our web site uses Verdana in the body text). This typeface was designed specifically with on screen viewing in mind. It is easy to read at smaller font sizes and similar characters such as 'l' (lowercase L) and '1' (number one) are clearly distinguishable.

Useful links:

Adobe Type Library

MyFonts

Other web sites of interest

The Straight Dope : archives of the syndicated column of the same name, written by the enigmatic Cecil Adams

The Internet Movie Database : information on movies, old and new

AnalogX : free software tools, especially useful for webmasters