We have come across many web design mistakes over the years and have compiled the top ten that we believe are the most critical. These mistakes highlight not only design direction, but also highlight proper planning practices when taking on a new web development or existing re-development project.
1. What is The Website About?
Four seconds is the alloted time to inform the user about your website. Within this short period of time, your website must motivate the user to look within your site, and move into your conversion funnels. Do not make the assumption that everyone knows about your website, as most users discovers new websites daily. Inform your audience through meaningful layouts.
2. Lack of Design Contrast
When design lacks contrast, it becomes difficult for the eye to percieve details, read copy, and often absorb the material that is presented. Designing with contrast draws the user in and engages them to look further into the site.
3. Mystery Meat Navigation
Mystery Meat Navigation is also referred to as a hidden navigation. When a user hovers over an object, it then displays where the links may direct towards. This can lead a user to confusion and often forgo noticing the main components to the navigation itself. Mystery Meat Navigation is also not search engine friendly.
4. Too Much To Look At
Often times information overload occurs on many websites. Making attempts to present more content than the user is willing to consume can work against you. Websites like these can lead to increased bounce rates, and do not serve the purpose of successfully moving the user to convert on your site.
5. Incorrect usage of graphics
Graphics are great components when added into websites, however, there are tasteful methods when generating graphic user interfaces. Graphics must compliment the look and have consistency to obtain a cohesive feel to the website. Stay true to your design and layout.
6. Pages Titles That Mean Nothing
Often, webmasters will utilize page titles such as ‘home’ or ‘about us’ – but disregard the name of the website and important keywords that can be utilized for search optimization. This is a critical component as the user should know what will occur when they click on any given link on your website.
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7. Design Elements Are Pointless
Design elements often create a look and feel that leaves a profound effect on the user. In fact, design that lacks elements and structure creates an incomplete look on a website. In order to design with effectiveness, consider your typography as a form of art.
8. How Do I Find It?
Sometimes, finding the most simple things on a website can become a daunting task. You seem to start asking yourself questions like: Where is the checkout button? or How do I search for what it is that I am looking for? All these questions are essential prior to a website buildout. Ensure the user has the ability to find information effectively.
9. Advertising Overload
We understand that a critical component to a businesses success for many websites is through strategic advertising placement. However, when websites are cluttered with advertising, they often deter the user from utilizing the website. Flashy banners, and pop-ups are a big no-no.
10. Lack of Service or Deemed Unreachable
Users want to interact with a person, not a robot. In fact, if they are purchasing a product/service from your website, be sure that you are available. Security measures are critical online, and users have become intellectual shoppers, and they understand website security . That should be a priority for any organization.