Websites are not like print material, they are more like information displays. As such, they need to attract an increasing audience in a highly competitive arena.
The Basic Aspects of Web Design
The basic aspects of web design are content, usability, appearance and structure.
* Content: The information on the webpage should be relevant to the site. It needs to target those that the website is concerned with.
* Usability: The site needs to be as user-friendly as possible, with simple, uncomplicated navigation.
* Appearance: The graphics and text should have a single and consistent style throughout the site. It needs to be professional and appealing.
* Structure: A website should include text, pictures, animation, and video. The main page is the Home Page. Sometimes, a Splash Page can be made with a welcome message and other features, although search engines generally don’t favor them.
What Readers Look For
Web readers enjoy quality and credibility. If a webpage gives high-quality content, readers will not be bothered too much by the advertisements and the design of the page. Content is more important than the design that supports it.
Most readers scan web pages. When looking over a page, readers need fixed points that guide them through the information. Web readers are generally in a hurry. If the website doesn’t meet the reader’s expectations, he will move on quickly. Anything that causes him to wait too long will lose him, so don’t include long downloads.
Readers follow their intuition. They generally meander through the page instead of reading the information provided in a systematic way. If the reader desires a designer billboard, then create amazing looking billboards on the web. Readers also want control. They generally don’t like extra windows popping up unexpectedly. They like to go back with a “Back” button, so it’s a good idea to not open links in new browser windows.
When you know the basics, you can create a better website.