Thursday, February 24, 2011

What is the difference between good and bad website design?

Anyone who has ever spent any time on the internet knows that some websites are better than others. They may not be able to pinpoint exactly what it is that makes some websites stand out – it may be as simple as the colours that are used on each page, or the simplicity of the content and the amount of useful links included – but they’ll know, for whatever reason, that they just like it better than other pages they’ve visited and want to spend more of their time there. So what exactly is the difference between good and bad web design?

Obviously the website described above is the kind you need to aim for — one that employs the techniques of website design to promote effortless browsing across an entertaining and informative array of pages that are easy to navigate. Let’s take a look at two of the main areas that differentiate the good from the bad in web
design:

Appearance: A good website design focuses on the tasteful and sparing use of colour, graphics and different font types and sizes. The overall look of the site must project a consistent image of the company. As a general rule, good website design does not employ more than three different colours across the site and limits text to include no more than two different fonts. In addition, quality website design ensures that lettering is of an appropriate size and colours are not too garish or conflicting in tone.

Functionality: The second most important feature that differentiates the good from the bad in website design is the extent to which the page is user-friendly. A good website is easy to navigate because it presents a practical menu system that is clearly identified and logically arranged. A good website design will also include a search function to allow visitors to sort through large volumes of information and find exactly what they are looking for. It will also include visibly displayed contact details should visitors require additional information.
Bad website design essentially ignores all of the rules set out above. Poorly designed websites lack any logical navigation system, feature out-of-date and irrelevant information and omit critical elements such as search box and ‘Contact Us’ pages. In most cases, bad website design results in confusion for visitors because the important and necessary features and information are lost amongst blinding colour schemes, distracting fonts and an abundance of advertising.

These are just a few of the main tips and techniques to adopt and avoid when establishing an online presence for your company. To side-step any of the cardinal sins of website design, it is always best to consult professional web designers whose portfolio clearly shows they know the good from the bad.

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