In our multi-tasking culture, it seems most everything is pushed to the background. We surf the web while we watch TV and we talk on our cell phones while we drive our car. With so many things constantly competing for our attention, what gets 100% of it anymore? And more importantly for you, what chance does your business stand in trying to get your message across in an attention-waning, focus-dulling marketplace?

An important concept of design is understanding how to get your message out of the background and into the foreground. Let's face it, we're a society of skimmers. We quickly scan to see if anything is worthy of our attention and if something grabs us, we'll focus. Now more than ever, effective design is important - visuals, color cues and overall layout strategy can help grab the attention you want and lead your customers through your message.

Don't underestimate the power of good design in a time when so much exists in the background. Whether developing a website, tradeshow booth or marketing collateral, think about where your message lands - background or foreground?