Web Design is a process of creating websites which can be used through internet via a web browser to present any required content. It has many steps like thinking about idea, analyzing different methods available to arrange it on a webpage and finally implementing it by publishing it online. There are few vital requirements for a basic Web Design, layout, color, graphics, fonts and content. In order to create a user friendly Web Design, there are few important factors that need consideration in designing phase. These include navigation, multimedia, compatibility, technology and interactivity. Few basic rules can help in designing a great website.
These are…
1. Content
Every website needs good informative content along with good design. So, it is important to pay attention to details as well as provide good content on all the pages. Also, there should be some consistency in posting new content on the website. It can be daily, weekly or monthly depending on the user expectations and client requirements.
2. Code
Being able to write own code for the website can be a great skill which can help in solving problems related to website design. It is better to write your own code from scratch instead of using a template. This will help in building the essential skill and you will be able to get the pages exactly the way you want.
3. Quality Check
Errors can very easily appear on webpages in form of typing mistakes, broken links, and content that refuses to load in time or correctly. This can seriously hamper the image of website and ruin user experience. It is very important to keep regular checks for such errors and rectify them at the earliest.
4. Compatibility
It is important to check the website in multiple browsers to ensure it is loading in acceptable manner in all the browsers. Website should be designed to ensure mobile friendliness. Nowadays, many user access websites on smartphones and website display needs to be correct for different screen sizes. CSS media queries can help in this regard.
5. Colors
Careful selection of appealing, consistent and soothing colors can help in improving user experience and prevent any bad experiences. Also, having good contrast between background and written content can help.
6. Consistency
Website design should be consistent from one page to another. It can cause confusion among customers or visitors if web design changes significantly from one page to another. So, try to get best design for your requirements and stick with it for all pages.
7. Comfortable navigation
Navigation should be simple and straightforward. Also, standard position for navigation is in header portion at the top of every page of the website. The horizontal navigation is considered standard for website design.
8. Creative design
It is very important to have a good impressive design for the website in order to increase number of repeat visitors.
9. Simplicity
Keeping the website simple will make it easy to use.
10. Position of Logo
The standard position for company logo is left upper corner on every page of the website. This logo should be clickable which means visitor should be able to click on it, opening a new webpage with more information about the company and products.
11. Contact
Common position for contact information is upper right corner. It can be in the form of clickable logo or link.
12. Home page slideshow
It is good idea to have a slideshow with multiple pictures and messages showcasing company information or salient features on the homepage.
13. Value proposition
Information about value for the visitors can be beneficial for the company and having this readily available on the upper portion of the page can make a big difference.
14. Call to action
Prominent and easily visible call to action prompts can be a big supporting feature for a good website.
15. Search Feature
Providing search feature in the header can help in easy navigation. However, if the website is carefully organized and have limited content, this feature is not required.
16. Signup box
Having a signup box in the footer can help in collecting email addresses of the visitors which can further facilitate in sending emails regarding updates.
17. Footer
This section can be used for social media icons, copyright, privacy, legal, sitemap and contact links depending on client requirements and preferences.
Discussion
Web Design is a creative field which brings science, art and technology together to create a wonderful virtual world. It is important to follow some basic rules in this process to make it successful and provide unforgettable user experience and get the desired results.