Many articles out there focus on how to build the best website for businesses using web design best practices. These practices will help you create a website that drives traffic, generates leads, and closes customers. The truth is, with technological advances and changes in consumer buying behaviors, designing an effective website isn’t as simple as it once was. Here are five common myths about website design:
Myth #1: Call-to-action buttons should be kept above the fold. Placing a CTA above the fold is the most common placement on web pages. In a case study done by Content Verve, a landing page with the call-to-action below the fold performed better than a page with the CTA above the fold by an incredible 304 percent. Now, that’s not saying placing a CTA above the fold is a bad idea. If the visitors are interested, it will receive clicks. Click through rates are highly dependent on the page content and the CTA itself. If you’re wondering where to place your call-to-action, run an A/B test. Keep both versions away from busy areas, but don’t be afraid to place one below the fold.
Myth #2: Design is only about making a website visually pleasing. While design does focus on making a website beautiful, it will also optimize functionality. The layout, text, and color scheme should be easy to read and navigate, but most importantly: the design must be made for the user. When you start looking at the design process as an important tool for form and function, the design of your website will take a whole new direction.
Myth #3: Stock photos add value to a website. In a research study done by Visual Website Optimizer, results showed that people often ignore stock photos, that only real, relevant images were able to engage visitors. Using real photos also gives you a leg up over your competitors who might be using the same stock image. Real photos support your marketing strategy, gain people’s trust, elicit their attention, and engage them on your website.
Myth #4: Websites look the same on any device. The way people browse the Internet has drastically changed in recent years. Instead of firing up their desktop computer, most users are now searching on their tablet or mobile device. This has changed the way web developers program. Instead of designing a website to fit one screen size, they must make fluid layouts that can snap to fit any screen size. If you’ve built a website within the past few years, you have likely heard the term responsive design. This is a design approach that allows a single design to fit various screen sizes. While responsive websites are different than mobile sites, both approaches should be considered when designing your website to ensure an optimal viewing experience for all users.
Myth #5: Building an online presence is simple. We’re not going to lie to you, building and designing a website takes a lot of time and effort. A website needs to be built based on clearly defined goals. Building a website just to have one will not establish your online presence. Thought needs to be given every step of the way to functionality, layout and design, and content. Hire a qualified company to assist you throughout the process.
When developing a new website or updating an existing site, be sure to avoid common misconceptions about website design. Base the design off of your business plan and always keep your customers in mind. Be sure to design a beautiful and functional site, where users receive an optimal experience upon navigating it using any device.
Topics: Web