It doesn’t matter whether you’re a first time web designer, or the webmaster of hundreds of websites, design is still the most important element of any website. Visitors will be more likely to make a return visit if you take the time to be sure that your site can be easily navigated, is aesthetically pleasing, and is loaded with awesome content. The advice that follows will help you to put together a site that is effective, and interesting to look at.
A successful website needs to work for visitors using any browser, so it is important to test your web pages to make sure they display properly in different browsers. Even though your website may display perfectly on Internet Explorer, this doesn’t mean that it will look the same on Chrome, Safari, or Firefox. Prior to releasing your website to the public, you should verify that all of your webpages appear as intended on every popular web browser.
Search Box
Include search elements that let visitors search site content. If people visit your site for something specific, they will be on the lookout for a search box. If you lack one, they may just move on to another website immediately. Normally, the best place to include the search box is in the upper right hand corner, as that is where most visitors look for it.
Before you publish any web page, check it carefully for broken links. The worst experience for a visitor is to have interest in learning more only to click the dreaded dead end link. Links can be checked manually, and you can also find software that will check your site to see if there are any broken links.
Don’t rely on JavaScript too much. Some of your website visitors may not have JavaScript, and others will not want to update it on a regular basis. There are many different web browsers that people use and they are constantly being updated with new features. All visitors won’t have the most current version of the particular browser they’re utilizing. Also, some people browse with scripting turned off. This means that a portion of your visitors won’t be able to use your website.
Always make sure that the navigation on your website is clear, user-friendly and easy to maintain. Where your links are will determine if visitors can get around your site. It is important to keep the navigational structure tidy and organized.
Make sure your load times are low. If visitors must wait a long time for something to load, they will want to leave the site. Try reducing Flasha and the number of graphics, implementing SSI files, optimizing pages, making expire headings, reducing CSS and JS codes and using server and client caching.
There is a universe of websites to help you when you are out of ideas in designing your website. There is no shortage of websites from which you can draw inspiration. Find one you like, write down what appeals to you and then figure out what you can mimic on your own. Remember that you can’t just steal ideas if your site is to be successful. You have to think of creative ways to improve them.
Even if you see designs you are attracted to on other sites, it is better to be creative on your own. Come up with your very own features and style, possibly enhancing ideas you lift from other websites that impress you. This is essential for you if you hope to be the best designer you can be.
It is important not to force people around your website. Do not attempt to force them to do an offer or a survey before continuing on with your site. By removing a viewer’s options and forcing them to do as you please, you are likely losing their service and creating a bad review for your domain.
Even after you have your web page launched and operation, you will need to tweak it occasionally. Prepare yourself to remain active, when it comes to the site. While there is no need to change things around every day, you must, nonetheless, update it regularly. This goes double if your site covers fast-moving topics like politics or hosts videos. Remember, website updating is much different than blog updating. There is a lot of work involved.
Using white (unused) space effectively can actually improve your website, so don’t think your website needs to be jam-packed with content. Using white space makes your website easy to read. This makes your site’s message much easier to understand and process.
The first place many visitors look is in the upper left hand corner. People look there first and you should have the important information there.
You have reviewed a lot of information in this article. Use it right and you will soon find that you have created an Internet site that meets your goals – a site that helps you to create lasting business relationships with consumers by providing a very user friendly and welcoming format. If you can accomplish this, you will enjoy higher rates of success and improved sales.