Whether you're creating your first Web site or updating an existing one, it's important that you adhere to some essential Web design standards. Based on user demand, usability and design elements have evolved to reflect growing trends but there are some basics that remain constant. If you are designing the site yourself or working with a professional, here are some guidelines for effective Web site design:
- To get started, sketch out your pages by hand or use a computer design program if you are proficient. It doesn't need to look like a work of art but it should act as a blueprint for when you begin to build.
- Create an interesting centerpiece on your first page - it could be your logo or something that you want your visitors to notice right away, like a specific product. Whatever you choose, make it eye-catching but if you use some type of animation, allows visitors the option of skipping the intro.
- Maintain consistent and repetitive design elements while still allowing each page to be representative of your individual style. Colors and text should remain the same, as should navigation bars and graphics. Also, don't feel compelled to use every available pixel - white space is pleasing to the eye and very effective for gaining attention.
- Pages, graphics and text should load fast, faster and fastest. It's expected that Internet users will be
using dial-up until 2005 so don't design for broadband yet. Design for speed, short attention spans and impatient visitors.
- Don't expect visitors to download tools or plugins in order to view products and make purchases.
- Navigation should be simple and intuitive. It's not a puzzle; it's a shopping site. Customers shouldn't have to use more than three clicks to find what they want.
- Frames are not your friends. Search engines and bookmarks have difficulty with frames and your page space can be put to better use.
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