Although everyone has their own preferences in terms of web design, there are some practices that should be avoided and others that should definitely be implemented. There is something to be said for simplicity and ease of use. The sites
that keep people coming back time and time again are clean, simple and
easy to navigate. Below is a list of helpful tips to make sure your web design is as effective as possible.
Design & Layout
1. Do keep the design and general layout consistent. Users should not be confused as to what site they are visiting while navigating to different sections of your web site.
2. Do consider your web site colors carefully. The general look and feel of the site is a direct representation of your company, so make sure it conveys the message you want your potential clients to identify with.
3. Don't use frames if at all possible. Frames are not easily indexed by search engines and users are not able to bookmark pages of interest.
4. Don't over crowd your site with information. Too much information can overwhelm a user and keep them from getting the information they want.
5. Don't design a website yourself unless you have enough web design
knowledge to make it look professional. Remember, first impressions are
everything.
Navigation
1. Do open a new window when dealing with external links. You want to make sure you keep your website available while users are browsing other information.
2. Do provide consistent navigation for your users. Your navigation should be in the same place throughout your website so users don't have to waste time searching.
3. Don't completely ditch text links if you are using navigation buttons or image maps. Some web site users set preferences in their browsers to only display text links for loading purposes.
Content
1. Do exercise proper spelling and grammar.
2. Do be precise and to the point. No guessing games necessary.
3. Do break up text by using headings, sub headings and lists. Users generally don't want to read through long endless paragraphs so breaking up the content will help the user decide what sections they are interested in reading.
4. Do use fonts that are easy to read (ex: Verdana).
5. Don't use ALL CAPS as it is associated with shouting. It also can be difficult to read.
6. Don't over use italics and bold.
Images
1. Don't use clip art as it tends to look unprofessional. If you can't afford professional photos, you can use stock images from sites like www.istock.com which are reasonably priced.
Contact
1. Do provide a link for users to contact you on every page. Don't make them search for your contact information!
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