Convincing website design – the basics

Designing your own website can be very daunting, especially when you lack experience. Use this article to help you get a good background, both on what all it entails and how to best implement it.

Color combinations are key in branding your website. You need to ensure that the text on your site is easily readable against your chosen background. Dark text colors on light backgrounds are usually easier to read compared to the other way around. If you are uncertain about the effectiveness of your color scheme choice, try it out on a friend and solicit feedback from them.
Allow users to cancel an action if they so choose. An action can involve filling out forms, registering for email notifications or newsletters, or browsing the site for various topics or archives. If visitors cannot cancel an action they are not interested in, such as providing their contact information, they will feel they do not have a choice and won’t buy anything.

Be aware of the background on your website. If you have a GIF background that moves, your text may be too hard to read. Select a wallpaper complementary to the rest of your design, so that your users will be able to negotiate the site more easily.

Be certain to ‘remember’ personal information that might have to be re-entered by the same site visitor. For example, if a person has to enter their information to register for an account, and then is filling out a form on your website that requires the same information, you want to have their data saved, so that they do not have to take the time to fill everything out again. If you use this data to your advantage, users will be able to save time as they navigate your site.

Do not use JavaScript more than you have to. For some people visiting your site, Java will cause problems instead of providing improved functionality. Although JavaScript has some benefits, you need to be aware of the different types of browsers being used. Many visitors use outdated versions of various web browsers, which means your code might not be supported. Also, consider that JavaScript isn’t regularly enabled in everyone’s browser. These both could keep users from getting to your website.

Set up your website so that people can easily search it. This is especially important if you have a large website. Put a search box in the uppermost right-hand corner of your homepage so that users can seek specific topics on your site. If you can’t code one yourself, Google and a few other websites offer free search functionality for websites with no programming required.

Before you start promoting your site, test it on several different browsers. Every browser will interpret the site slightly differently. Some of the slight differences can cause navigation to be difficult for the user. Learn which browsers are used the most. Make sure your website works in Internet Explorer, Firefox, Chrome, localize a website Safari and the major mobile browsers.

Your website is a great way to promote your company or product and to reach your intended audience. It is an excellent skill to add to your resume. By using what you’ve read here you’ll be able to begin right away in creating the site you need to succeed.