Web Design
Website Design relates to so much more than colour schemes, banners and graphics, though this is important. It’s also significant in terms of functionality, user experience (UX), and brand identity. A website with an attractive design will not always prove to be successful, but when it is designed with the right target audience in mind and appropriate functionality, it can be very successful. Trends are often associated with website designs, for example we’re now in the era of ‘flat’ design, and it’s important not to get too carried away looking at the latest trends.
Design elements should not just be used because they’re fashionable, they should be used if they are relevant to your target audience and fit for purpose in terms of converting a visitor into a customer. When you look into design you will often hear phrases like ‘every pixel on is important’ and there is an element of truth in this. The planning stage is vital when you’re having a website designed and you have to look at your plan as if you are a customer. You may want to look at your design and ask yourself the following questions:
• Does the content persuade you to enquire or buy? • Are services or products easy to access? • Can you find what you want to quickly?
• Is the design functional on multiple devices, such as mobiles, tablets etc? • Is the text easy to read?
• Does the website as a whole do what it is supposed to?
If a visitor lands on an attractive website then they may be soon become engaged and focused on what they’re looking for, and they will find out quickly if the website functions well and is user-friendly. If it’s not they may leave the page in seconds, and that’s why functionality should always be spoken about with website design. Colours, typography, logos and images can all help to build a brand identity, and this is why every element needs consideration because they have to be fitting with your target audience and easy to distinguish.
A top class website design will combine all of these essential elements and a thoughtfully designed website – with ongoing development – can work effectively for years, and web design should always be seen as a long-term investment that can maximise your return on investment (ROI), boost sales and persuade customers to return.