Innovative Logo Concepts for SSMPL: A New Era in Web Design
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Chapter 1: Introduction to SSMPL
Recently, accessibility expert Jason Knight introduced the concept of SSMPL, an alternative to HTML. He argues for the need to adopt semantic markup while addressing the inconsistencies within HTML.
“We must prioritize the meaning of tags for all user agents—not just screen browsers. Clear nesting rules are essential. Therefore, I propose SSMPL—Simplified Semantic Markup Practices Language—as a future replacement for HTML.” – Jason Knight
In his article, Jason invites feedback and outlines several critical tasks:
- Define a new document structure and non-rendering elements.
- Create a standardized format for documenting tags.
- Develop a classification system for tags similar to inline and block categories, avoiding any confusion.
- Decide which tags to retain, which to introduce, and update attributes accordingly.
- Produce a stylesheet for screen media that serves as a reference for browser developers and functions as a polyfill in older browsers.
- Implement a JavaScript polyfill to rectify issues not solvable with CSS.
- Create server-side scripts to convert SSMPL to HTML before delivery to the user agent, automatically adding necessary polyfills.
Beyond these seven points, Jason emphasizes the need for a name, a logo, and a catchy tagline, which he has included at the beginning of his article.
While I appreciate the name SSMPL—especially as it can be pronounced "simple"—and the tagline "building blocks for a better web," I find the proposed logo a bit outdated. From a more objective standpoint, modern imagery is vital to convey the essence of something innovative and transformative. Without this, there’s a risk that it may be perceived as regressive. Achieving widespread adoption is crucial for the success of the initiative to replace HTML, the backbone of the web.
I'm genuinely intrigued by the SSMPL concept and would like to assist in bringing it to life. Although I'm not a professional designer, I hope my basic prototypes might inspire others.
Ever tried. Ever failed. No matter. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.
Building Blocks For a Better Web
I began experimenting with various block designs, inspired by the tagline. Although none of these abstract block structures qualify as a standalone logo, they could serve as part of a larger visual identity.
Honestly, I find the optical illusion created by rearranging the shadows in the two-dimensional blocks quite satisfying. I also tried to incorporate quirky details, like the grey tile within the colored block composition. I have a fondness for quirks! 😊
First Attempts
My initial attempts were perhaps a bit too avant-garde? While I appreciate the visuals, they are overly unconventional and not easily accessible. So, I returned to the concept of blocks:
I made some progress. The blocks successfully communicate the "atomic" nature of markup—small components coming together to form larger structures. The Lastica font fits perfectly for a tech-related theme without being excessively technical.
Exploring this direction further, I crafted something influenced by the aesthetics of "Squid Game":
Squidified Semantic Markup Practices Language?
Font First
I also aimed to design something text-centric, focusing more on typography and less on non-text elements, while incorporating a retro touch to honor HTML and the early web, as well as Jason's original logo.
The Squartica and Shrikhand fonts embody the retro kitsch I desired—almost but not quite off-putting. This defines my vision of the new retro wave design trend, teetering on distasteful. 😄
In this design, the block-inspired visuals are mostly absent, allowing the typography to take center stage.
My most refined "font-first" attempt features a speech bubble to symbolize the semantics—the core aspect of SSMPL—while the Inndam font represents the building blocks concept.
Though it's not my favorite, I find it quite appealing.
Color Palette
The initial designs utilized a straightforward color scheme of black, white, #62168b (dark purple), and #38b6ff (light blue). For subsequent prototypes, I leaned towards a blue/purple palette with variations: #004aad (cobalt blue), #5271ff (king's blue), #38b6ff (light blue), #5ce1e6 (turquoise), #5e17eb (violet), #8c52ff (purple), #cb6ce6 (magenta), and #ff66c4 (pink).
I didn’t invest much thought into these palettes; my preference for purple, violet, and pink drives my choices, especially when combined with blue and black.
Blue and purple palette.
Summary
I hope that some of these prototypes capture enough interest for someone to refine them into the official SSMPL logo. Additionally, I genuinely hope Jason Knight finds them appealing (or at the very least, not offended). 😅
If you haven't yet, I encourage you to read Jason's articles on SSMPL.
Let’s work together to enhance the web!
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