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Pascal Klein has released the 4th edition of his Beautiful Web Typography slide deck on Slideshare (above). The Web is a wonderful communication tool, but it often suffers from an oppressive use of typography. Readability and usability are intertwined in any piece of communication using words, and that applies to both the digital and print realm.

Even though the Web is far more contemporary than the printing press, ironically it was the technological limitations of the Web in its initial form that hindered good typography. It also narrowed the gulf between good design and bad design in the interactive world. Web designers are now finding ways to overcome these technological impediments. The result of this can only mean a boon to web usability.

Typography is an unappreciated art and science in the design world. Klein quotes Jeff Croft in his presentation: “Typography is not picking a cool font.” Compare a printed piece with the same words – one designed by a person without a thorough knowledge of typography, and one with. The results will be immediately discernible.

I look forward to the day, when the Web has the subtly of typographic control now enjoyed by the print world. That day is moving closer, and when it arrives, good design will encompass the full power of typography to aid in the communication process. If good design on the Web is characterized by an improved user experience, and it should be, typography as an art and science will become more important than ever. It will also become a determinant that separates the amateurs from the pros.