VIsuals - Don't overdo the background! Part 3

So now the question is "what *is* a good background?"

In graphic design, the most effective and most often used background is plain white. Black text is used on this white background to get the most contrast and the easiest visibility, and therefore, the easiest readability.

Let's look at the contrast for a moment. Contrast is one of the most abused rules in graphic design, both by professionals and amateurs alike. Sometimes it's on purpose... and sometimes... it's not.

Contrast is the difference between two objects or ideas. In print (and on the web), this is achieved through color and pattern selections. The further "apart" the colors are from each other, the more contrast. Contrast creates separation, which can be used for organization of ideas and content on a website or printed piece.

Text needs strong contrast to be easily read. Otherwise, it gets lost. Whether it is black text on a white page or white text on a black page, the contrast has to be there.

So to answer the question, if the text can be easily read, then the site has a good background. If not, then the background needs to be toned down.