The Basics Of Good Web Site Design

Good web site design is integral for the success of your web site. If you have a web site that needs to be redesigned or are starting from scratch, this is the definitive guide for learning the basics of good web site design.

- Keep It Simple, Silly! – Savvy web site users know that the simple web sites are more likely to capture their attention and keep them on the web site. These users avoid flashing, blinking, wild graphics. These users also avoid web sites that start playing music, advertisements, or a talking “guide” because these are old-school web marketing tactics that are overused and very ineffective. Web sites that offer clean, simple design that are easy to use, graphically stimulating while not bombarding the user are the best web sites. Take a look at all the extremely successful web sites out there – look at what they have in common and copy that model.

- Text – All web sites should have relevant content, but not overwhelm the user with a lot of text and information. The first rule of text is to use a standard font. Arial is the most common font and looks great on any screen. Avoid fonts that are not standard and that may be difficult to read. Be sure that the text is an appropriate size – not too small and not too large. Use underlined, bolded and italicized fonts very sparingly. Never, ever type text in all capital letters. The second rule of text is to provide short tidbits of information as opposed to large paragraphs. For this rule using numbered or bulleted sentences is ideal. The third rule of text is to write simply. Avoid using buzz words, abbreviations, non-standard language, and overly complicated words. Be sure to underline all links so that the user is aware that the word is actually a link.

- Navigation – Every web site needs several pages of content, at a minimum. Avoid placing all content on one page and forcing the user to scroll continuously to find information. Make a navigation bar either at the top of the page or along the left-hand side of the page. Put the links to the main topics of the web site within this navigation section. Important links to include: Home, About, Contact.

- Colors – Good web site design incorporates colors that coordinate, and that do not hide the text and the navigation. Avoid colors that clash, are overly bright or that make the text difficult to read. The best web sites have a light-colored background and black text. The same rule applies to graphics – ensure that graphics coordinate with the web site colors and do not overwhelm the user.

- Size – To ensure that users visiting your web site have a good experience, make sure that your web site is sized properly. The standard size is 800 x 600 pixels. Also ensure that the home page is able to download quickly and not loaded with large graphics or anything requiring the user to download additional programs.

By: Frank Johnny

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