A comprehensive rundown of key web design mistakes and how to fix them!
10 Common Web Design Mistakes to Avoid
Your website is often the first impression people get of your business. A poorly designed website can turn visitors away, but a well-thought-out design can convert visitors into customers. To help you build a site that stands out for all the right reasons, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 most common web design mistakes to avoid.
1. Cluttered Design
A cluttered design overwhelms users and makes navigation difficult. When visitors land on your site, they should be able to quickly find what they need without being bombarded with too much information. Less is often more!
How to fix it: Use plenty of white space, clear sections, and focus on one main goal per page. A clean and simple layout will make your site more user-friendly and visually appealing.
2. Not Mobile-Friendly
In today’s mobile-first world, having a website that doesn’t adapt to different screen sizes is a huge mistake. More than half of web traffic comes from mobile devices, so if your website isn’t responsive, you’re missing out on potential customers.
How to fix it: Test your site on various screen sizes, from mobile phones to tablets, and ensure it looks and functions well across all devices.
3. Slow Loading Speed
A slow website can frustrate visitors and drive them away before they even see your content. People expect websites to load quickly—ideally in under three seconds.
How to fix it: Compress large images, reduce the number of plugins, and use a fast, reliable hosting service. These steps can dramatically improve your site’s loading time.
4. Poor Navigation
If visitors can’t find what they’re looking for, they’ll leave. Your navigation should be simple, clear, and intuitive, helping users move around your site effortlessly.
How to fix it: Limit the number of menu items, use clear labels, and make sure every link works as expected. Always guide your visitors toward the most important content.
5. Ignoring SEO
You might have the best website in the world, but if no one can find it, it’s not doing its job. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps your site appear in search results, driving organic traffic.
How to fix it: Incorporate relevant keywords, create SEO-friendly titles and meta descriptions, and use image alt tags. This will help improve your rankings on search engines like Google.
6. Lack of a Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)
If your website doesn’t tell visitors what to do next, they’ll likely leave without taking action. A strong call-to-action guides users toward your goals—whether that’s signing up for a newsletter, making a purchase, or contacting you.
How to fix it: Place clear, bold CTAs on every page, encouraging users to take the next step. Be specific about what you want them to do.
7. Too Much Text
Long paragraphs and blocks of text can overwhelm readers. People scan web content quickly, so keep your text concise and to the point.
How to fix it: Break your content into smaller sections, use bullet points, and include images or icons to make the content more digestible.
8. Inconsistent Branding
Your website is an extension of your brand. If your colors, fonts, and tone of voice vary from page to page, it confuses users and makes your brand appear unprofessional.
How to fix it: Establish a brand style guide and ensure that your fonts, colors, and imagery are consistent across all pages.
9. Overuse of Pop-ups
Pop-ups can be helpful when used correctly, but too many—or ones that appear at the wrong time—can annoy visitors and cause them to leave your site.
How to fix it: Use pop-ups sparingly and ensure they don’t cover the main content too quickly. Only use them for important information, such as special offers or newsletter sign-ups.
10. Neglecting Website Maintenance
A website is never truly “finished.” Regular maintenance ensures your site stays secure, functional, and up to date. Neglecting updates can lead to broken links, security vulnerabilities, and an outdated user experience.
How to fix it: Schedule regular maintenance checks, update plugins, review content for relevancy, and ensure your site’s security is always up to par.
Final Thoughts
By avoiding these common web design mistakes, you’ll ensure that your website is not only visually appealing but also functional, easy to navigate, and optimized for both search engines and user experience. A well-designed site can make a world of difference in turning visitors into loyal customers!
If you’re ready to create a website that works for your business, avoid these pitfalls and set yourself up for success. And if you need help along the way, feel free to reach out!
A Deep Dive Into The Key Differences Between A Website and an App…
Businesses are increasingly turning to online platforms to reach their audiences. As a result, the debate between websites and apps has become more prominent.
Both serve unique purposes and can significantly enhance your online digital presence, but they are fundamentally different in terms of functionality, user experience, and development.
Our 7 point deep dive explains the differences…
1. Definition and Purpose Website: A website is a collection of interlinked web pages hosted on a web server, accessible through the internet using a web browser. Websites are designed to provide information, showcase products, share content, and offer services to users. They are typically static or dynamic in nature and can be accessed on any device with a web browser. App: An application (app) is a software program designed to perform specific tasks or functions directly on a user’s device. Apps can be divided into three main categories: mobile apps, desktop apps, and web apps. Mobile apps are specifically designed for smartphones and tablets, while desktop apps are for computers. Web apps operate within a web browser but offer a more app-like experience.
2. Accessibility Website: Websites are universally accessible from any device with an internet connection and a web browser. Users simply type in the URL or click on a link to visit the site. This ease of access makes websites ideal for reaching a broad audience. App: Apps need to be downloaded and installed from app stores (such as Google Play Store or Apple App Store) or other platforms. This requirement can limit initial accessibility, but once installed, apps often provide a more personalised and optimized user experience.
3. User Experience Website: Websites provide a consistent experience across different devices since they are designed to be responsive. Modern web design practices ensure that websites adapt to various screen sizes and resolutions, offering a seamless experience whether accessed from a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. App: Apps are designed to leverage the native features of the device they are installed on, such as the camera, GPS, and touch gestures. This integration allows for a more intuitive and engaging user experience. Mobile apps, in particular, can provide faster performance and offline capabilities, which websites typically cannot.
4. Development and Maintenance Website: Developing a website generally involves using web technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, Wix, and Squarespace make it easier to build and maintain websites without extensive coding knowledge. Updates and maintenance are done on the server side, making it easier to deploy changes universally. App: App development is more complex and typically requires knowledge of specific programming languages and development environments. For instance, developing a native mobile app for iOS requires Swift or Objective-C, while Android apps require Java or Kotlin. Apps also need to be regularly updated and maintained through the respective app stores, which involves more rigorous processes compared to websites.
5. Cost and Time Website: Building a website is generally less expensive and time-consuming than developing an app. Tools and templates available on platforms like WordPress can significantly reduce costs and development time. App: App development can be costly and time-intensive, especially if you’re developing separate versions for different operating systems (iOS and Android). The need for ongoing updates, bug fixes, and compatibility with new devices and OS versions further adds to the cost.
6. Searchability and Reach Website: Websites are indexed by search engines like Google, making them easily searchable and discoverable. This searchability is crucial for attracting organic traffic and reaching a wider audience through search engine optimization (SEO). App: Apps are primarily found through app store searches, advertising, and word-of-mouth. While app store optimisation (ASO) can help improve discoverability, apps generally have a more limited reach compared to websites unless they gain significant popularity.
7. Usage and Engagement Website: Websites are ideal for providing information, sharing content, and offering services that don’t require extensive user interaction. They are well-suited for businesses looking to establish an online presence and reach a broad audience. App: Apps excel in scenarios where user engagement, personalization, and interaction are key. They are perfect for services that benefit from push notifications, offline access, and integration with device hardware. Apps can also foster higher user retention and engagement through tailored experiences.
CONCLUSION
Choosing between a Website and an App depends on your specific goals, audience, and resources. If your aim is to reach a broad audience and provide accessible information, a website might be the best option. On the other hand, if you seek to offer a highly interactive and personalised experience, investing in an App could be more beneficial.Both websites and apps have unique advantages and can complement each other when used strategically. Understanding their differences and potential can help you make an informed decision and effectively leverage digital tools to achieve your objectives.
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When was the last time you wanted to know more about a business or service? Chances are you went to Google and searched for their website.
One of my pet hates is when I’m searching for a company online and the link takes me directly to a Facebook Page – so frustrating!
This sends out the wrong message because:
a) it looks unprofessional b) why would a business rely on Mr Zuckerberg to give them a web presence?
If you have a Domain Name you can easily set up a Coming Soon / Landing Page!
You can use your Coming Soon Page as a placeholder webpage to announce that your new website or webpage is under construction and will be launched soon.
This serves several purposes:
It Generates Interest and Excitement: It creates anticipation and buzz about your upcoming website or service.
You Can Collect Leads: By including a sign-up form to collect email addresses or other contact information from visitors who want to be notified when your website is live.
SEO Benefits: It allows search engines to start indexing your domain, which can be beneficial for search engine optimization (SEO) when the full site goes live.
Brand Awareness: It helps establish an early online presence and gives visitors a glimpse of your brand’s identity.
Provides Basic Information: You can offer essential information such as the business name, logo, a brief description of what’s coming, and social media links.Creating an effective Coming Soon page involves striking a balance between providing enough information to generate interest and maintaining an element of mystery to keep visitors intrigued.
Here’s a few examples of our recent Coming Soon web pages to inspire you…
Get A FREE Essential Web Design Checklist!
Our handy checklist is filled with best practices to guide you through setting up and maintaining your website.
Whether you’re building your first site or looking to improve your existing one, it’s your perfect toolkit!
If you’re still undecided if your business needs a website, here are 8 reasons why it does…
1. Hang Out Online and Look Legit:A website makes your business look professional online. It’s like a digital handshake that says, “Hey, we’re legit, and we’re here for you whenever you need us.”
2. Connect with Everyone, Everywhere:Your website turns your local business into a global player. No more limits – people from around the world can check out what you’ve got going on.
3. Spread the Word Without Breaking a Sweat:It’s not just a website; it’s your marketing assistant. Show off your stuff, share what others are saying about you, and let the world know why you’re awesome. Display your customer testimonials as your social proof.
4. Easy-Peasy for Customers:Convenience is key! Your website lets customers browse, shop, and learn about you anytime, anywhere. No need to worry about closing hours – your digital doors are always open.
5. Stay in the Game:Everyone’s online, including your competitors. Having a killer website keeps you in the game. Customers like to compare, and you want to be part of that comparison, right?
6. High-Five Your Customers Online:Engage with your customers! Your website is the perfect place for them to reach out, ask questions, or give a shout-out. It’s all about building those virtual relationships.
7. Show Off Your Goods:Display your products or services like a boss. High-quality pics, cool info – make your business shine bright on the web.
8. Geek Out on Analytics:Get the lowdown on your online party. Analytics tell you who’s visiting, what they’re into, and how you can keep the good vibes going.
In a nutshell, a website isn’t just a digital brochure – it’s your business’s coolest hangout spot on the internet! It helps you connect, impress, and keep the good times rolling.
This week, we are delighted to showcase our most recent project – a stunning website tailor-made for a wedding car company. As creatives, it’s always a pleasure to work on projects that celebrate life’s beautiful moments.
The Beginning of a Beautiful Journey
Our journey with this exciting new company began when they approached us with a vision: to craft a brand identity and a website that truly encapsulated the essence of their wedding car business. Their passion for providing unparalleled service and making dreams come true through their beautiful wedding cars was inspirational.
Colour Harmony: An Artistic Approach
The cornerstone of any brand identity is its color scheme, and for this project, we drew our inspiration from the elegant hues adorning the wedding cars themselves. The rich, romantic colors found on these iconic vehicles formed the basis of our carefully curated colour palette. This brand color scheme is seamlessly woven into every aspect of the website, reflecting the company’s commitment to excellence and style.
A Splash of Celebration: The Confetti Effect
One of the highlights of this project was the opportunity to infuse a touch of celebration into the digital experience. We took innovation to heart and added a delightful animated confetti effect to the pages. This effect not only adds a playful and celebratory touch but also symbolises the joy and festivity associated with weddings. We believe it’s the little details like this that make a website truly memorable.
Our journey with this wedding car company has been a labor of love. We feel privileged to have been part of their beginning and are proud of the elegant and functional website we’ve created to showcase their extraordinary wedding cars.
To explore the harmony of colors, the joy of celebration, and the beauty of wedding wheels, visit https://my-wedding-cars.co.uk/.
Prepare to be inspired by the artistry and sophistication of wedding dreams brought to life.
As a web designer that’s the question I’m asked most frequently.
The choice between Wix and WordPress depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Both platforms have their own advantages and disadvantages, so I’ve outlined some key points for you to consider before making your decision.
WIX:
Ease of Use: Wix is known for its user-friendly drag-and-drop interface, making it relatively easy for beginners to create and customize websites without much technical knowledge.
Design: Wix offers a wide range of professionally designed templates that can be customised to fit your brand and style. The design options are visually appealing and can help you create a polished website.
Maintenance: Wix takes care of hosting, security, and updates for you, so you don’t need to worry about technical maintenance tasks.
Ecosystem: Wix provides an integrated ecosystem where you can find various apps and features to enhance your website’s functionality. However, the customisation options might be limited compared to WordPress.
Limitations: While Wix is easy to use, it can be less flexible and customisable compared to WordPress. Advanced users might find limitations in terms of code customisation and complex functionality.
WORDPRESS:
Flexibility and Customisation: WordPress offers more flexibility and customisation options. You can create complex websites, online stores, blogs, portfolios, and more by using plugins, themes, and custom code.
Ownership and Control: With WordPress, you have full ownership and control over your website. You can host it on your preferred server, choose your own domain name, and have more control over data.
Community and Plugins: WordPress has a massive community of developers, designers, and users, resulting in a vast library of plugins and themes that can add almost any functionality you need to your website.
Learning Curve: While WordPress offers more power, it also has a steeper learning curve, especially if you’re not familiar with website building or managing hosting.
Maintenance: You’ll need to manage hosting, security, and updates yourself if you use the self-hosted version of WordPress. This might require more technical know-how.
CONCLUSION
If you’re looking for a simple, user-friendly solution and don’t require extensive customisation, Wix might be a good choice. On the other hand, if you value flexibility, customisation, and full ownership of your website, and you’re willing to invest some time in learning and managing your site, WordPress could be a better fit for you.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific goals, technical comfort level, and the features you prioritise for your website.
Join us on this exciting journey to build your online presence with WordPress! Would you like to learn how to build your own WordPress website from scratch? Then be the first to know when our new 6 week course “Build a WordPress Website – A Beginner’s Guide” is ready to launch and claim your EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT!
Course structure: Week 1: Introduction to WordPress and Website Basics Week 2: Setting Up Your WordPress Website Week 3: Creating and Managing Content Week 4: Enhancing Your Website’s Design Week 5: Extending Functionality with Plugins Week 6: Website Optimisation and Maintenance
By the end of this course, you’ll have a fully functional WordPress website that showcases your content, style, and personality. You’ll have the confidence to manage, update, and maintain your website without relying on external help. Register your interest in our course today and be the first to find out when we launch and claim your EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT!
