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Embracing Dark Mode: A Design Trend That's Here to Stay in 2024

In the ever-evolving landscape of web design, certain trends emerge that not only capture our attention but also become enduring elements shaping the digital experience. One such trend that has transitioned from being a novelty to a design staple is Dark Mode. As we step into 2024, the continued prominence of dark mode in web design stands as a testament to its appeal and functionality. In this blog, we'll delve into the reasons behind its enduring popularity, its impact on user experience and accessibility, and showcase websites that have adeptly embraced this sleek and modern aesthetic.

The Dark Mode Resurgence

Dark mode has come a long way from being a niche feature to becoming a mainstream design choice. Its resurgence can be attributed to its aesthetic appeal, which goes beyond being merely trendy. Dark mode offers users a visually immersive and comfortable experience, particularly in low-light conditions. As we investigate its continued prominence, we find that dark mode has become a design language that transcends individual preferences, impacting user engagement and satisfaction across various digital platforms.

Aesthetic Sophistication:

Dark mode isn't just a design preference; it's a statement of aesthetic sophistication. The muted colour palette creates a sense of elegance and modernity, providing a canvas that allows other elements to shine. Websites and applications adopting dark mode often exude a sleek and refined aesthetic that resonates with users seeking a contemporary and visually pleasing experience.

Alignment with Contemporary Design Sensibilities:

The visual appeal of dark mode aligns seamlessly with contemporary design sensibilities. As the digital landscape evolves, users gravitate towards interfaces that not only look good but also offer a harmonious visual experience. Dark mode's inherent allure caters to this preference, making it a design choice that resonates with modern audiences.

Impact on User Experience

1. Visual Comfort and Immersion

Dark mode's primary advantage lies in its ability to reduce eye strain and fatigue, especially during extended periods of screen time. The subdued contrast between text and background in dark mode minimises glare, providing a comfortable reading experience. Users find themselves immersed in content without the harshness associated with traditional light interfaces.

2. Enhancing Focus and Attention

Dark mode has proven effective in drawing attention to specific elements on a webpage. By reducing the prominence of background elements, dark mode directs focus towards the content, making it stand out more prominently. This enhances readability and ensures that users can effortlessly navigate through the interface.

3. Night-time Browsing Delight:

As users increasingly embrace night-time browsing habits, dark mode becomes a key facilitator of a delightful digital experience. The gentle glow of dark backgrounds reduces the overall brightness of screens, making it conducive to relaxed and comfortable browsing, especially in low-light environments.

Impact on Accessibility

1. Inclusivity in Design

The continued integration of dark mode across web platforms is contributing to a more inclusive design ethos. Users with visual impairments, light sensitivity, or certain visual disorders find dark mode to be a friendlier option. It ensures that digital experiences are accessible to a broader audience, fostering a sense of inclusivity in the online space.

2. Customisation for User Preferences

Dark mode isn't just about aesthetics; it's about empowering users with choice. Websites that offer a dark mode option allow users to tailor their experience based on personal preferences and visual comfort. This flexibility enhances accessibility, providing a more personalised interaction with digital content.

Impact on Energy Efficiency

Beyond its impact on the user experience, dark mode has also garnered attention for its potential in contributing to energy efficiency. On devices with OLED or AMOLED screens, dark mode reduces the energy consumption of individual pixels, leading to potential battery savings, which aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable design practices.

Sustainability in Design:

The environmentally conscious shift towards sustainable design practices is influencing every aspect of the digital realm. Dark mode's potential to reduce energy consumption on devices with specific screen technologies aligns seamlessly with this sustainability drive. As users become more environmentally aware, the adoption of dark mode contributes to a collective effort towards a greener digital footprint.

Showcasing Dark Mode Done Right

1. YouTube: Cinematic Elegance

YouTube's implementation of dark mode adds a touch of cinematic elegance to the platform. The contrast between the dark background and vibrant video thumbnails enhances the overall viewing experience. This design choice not only aligns with user preferences but also contributes to prolonged engagement on the platform.

2. Slack: Seamless Collaboration

Slack's dark mode seamlessly integrates into the platform's collaborative environment. The muted colour palette ensures that messages and interactions take centre stage, creating a distraction-free workspace. This implementation enhances user focus and provides a visually polished interface for effective communication.

3. Reddit: Redefining Community Interaction

Reddit's dark mode goes beyond aesthetics, redefining how users interact with the platform. The subdued background allows the content and conversations to shine, creating a more immersive and focused browsing experience. This design choice reflects Reddit's commitment to user-centric design and enhancing the overall community engagement.

Conclusion:

As we navigate the digital realms of 2024, it's evident that dark mode has evolved from a passing trend to a design staple. Its continued prominence can be attributed to its multifaceted impact on user experience, accessibility, and even energy efficiency. Dark mode isn't merely a design choice; it's a commitment to creating digital experiences that are visually engaging, inclusive, and user-friendly. As web designers and users alike embrace this sleek and modern aesthetic, it's safe to say that dark mode is not just a trend – it's here to stay, defining the digital aesthetics of 2024 and beyond. So, as you scroll through your favourite websites, consider the impact of dark mode on your digital journey – a journey that's comfortable, immersive, and visually captivating.

Ready to immerse in the future of web design? Embrace dark mode for a sleek, comfortable, and visually captivating online experience. Get in contact today!

Posted in Mobile Apps, Graphic Design, Web Design Trends, Website Design

The Role of Colour Psychology in Web Design

In the digital age, the success of a website is often measured not only by its functionality and content but also by its visual appeal. 

Web design has evolved from simple, text-heavy pages to vibrant and interactive platforms that cater to a wide range of user preferences and expectations. Central to this transformation is the use of colour, which plays a vital role in web design. The field of colour psychology explores how colours can influence human emotions and behaviour. 

In this blog, we'll delve into how colour psychology impacts web design and guide you on choosing the right colour schemes for your site.

Understanding Colour Psychology

Colour psychology is a branch of psychology that examines how different colours can affect human thoughts, emotions, and behaviours. It's a fascinating field that has been applied to various aspects of our lives, from marketing and branding to interior design and web design.

In web design, colour psychology is leveraged to create websites that not only look aesthetically pleasing but also serve the intended purpose effectively. Different colours can evoke specific emotional responses, and understanding these responses is crucial for designing websites that resonate with users.

The Impact of Colours on Emotions and Behaviour

Colours have a profound impact on human emotions and behaviour. Here's a breakdown of how various colours can influence users on your website:

Red: 

Red is a high-energy colour associated with passion, excitement, and urgency. It can be used to grab users' attention and encourage them to take action. For example, many e-commerce websites use red for their "Buy Now" buttons to prompt quick purchasing decisions.

Blue:

Blue is often associated with trust, reliability, and calmness. It's a popular choice for corporate websites and social media platforms. Lighter shades of blue can create a sense of serenity, while darker blues can convey professionalism and stability.

Green: 

Green is often linked to nature, health, and growth. It can be used to convey messages of eco-friendliness, relaxation, and freshness. Many websites in the health and wellness industry use green to create a sense of trust and well-being.

Yellow: 

Yellow is a bright and cheerful colour that evokes feelings of positivity and happiness. It can be used to draw attention and stimulate optimism. However, excessive use of yellow can be overwhelming, so it should be used sparingly.

Purple:

Purple is associated with luxury, creativity, and spirituality. It's often used in websites targeting a more artistic or niche audience. Deep purples can convey a sense of opulence, while lighter shades can evoke feelings of creativity and imagination.

Orange:

Orange is a colour of enthusiasm, energy, and warmth. It's an attention-grabbing colour that can be used to encourage action. Orange is often used for call-to-action buttons and elements meant to stand out.

Black and White:

Black is often associated with sophistication and elegance, while white conveys simplicity and purity. These two colors are frequently used together in web design to create a clean and modern look. They are often used in minimalist or high-end fashion websites.

Choosing the Right Colour Schemes

Now that we understand how colours can influence emotions and behaviour, the next step is to choose the right colour schemes for your website. Here are some tips to help you make informed decisions:

Know Your Audience: Understanding your target audience is essential. Different colours may resonate differently with various demographics and cultures. Conduct research or surveys to determine what colours your audience prefers and associates with your industry.

Stay Consistent with Branding: If your website represents a brand, the colour scheme should align with the brand's identity. Consistency in branding helps in building trust and recognition among users. Coca-Cola, for example, is inseparable from its iconic red and white colour scheme.

Consider the Emotional Impact: Think about the emotions you want to evoke in your users. If you want to create a sense of trust, you might consider using shades of blue. If you want to encourage action, red or orange may be more appropriate.

Balance and Contrast: Effective web design often involves using a combination of colours that balance and contrast with each other. This makes your website visually appealing and easy to navigate. Use tools like colour wheels to find complementary colours.

Test and Iterate: Web design is not a one-time process. It's essential to test your colour choices and gather feedback from users. Conduct A/B testing to see which colour schemes perform better in achieving your goals.

Accessibility: Ensure that your chosen colour scheme is accessible to all users, including those with visual impairments. Use colour combinations that provide sufficient contrast and consider alternative text and other accessibility features.

Case Studies: The Power of Colour in Web Design

Let's take a closer look at some websites that effectively leverage colour psychology to enhance user experience and achieve their goals.

1. Airbnb:

Airbnb's website predominantly uses a calming and trust-evoking shade of blue. The colour scheme is consistent with their brand and creates a sense of reliability for users searching for accommodations. The use of green in call-to-action buttons promotes bookings, and the overall design is user-friendly.

2. McDonald's:

McDonald's uses red and yellow, which are known for evoking excitement and enthusiasm. These colours encourage users to feel hungry and act quickly. The colour scheme aligns with the fast-food industry's goal of serving customers promptly.

3. Patagonia:

Patagonia, a company known for its commitment to environmental sustainability, uses earthy greens and blues in its web design. These colours convey a sense of nature and eco-friendliness, aligning with the brand's values and target audience.

4. Apple:

Apple's website design is minimalist and modern, predominantly using black and white. These colours convey sophistication and simplicity, mirroring the brand's identity and high-end products.

Conclusion

Colour psychology is a powerful tool in web design that can significantly influence user emotions and behaviour. By understanding the emotional impact of colours and choosing the right colour schemes, web designers can create websites that effectively communicate the desired message, capture user attention, and encourage actions. Remember that successful web design isn't just about aesthetics; it's about connecting with your audience on an emotional level and guiding them towards your goals. So, when designing or redesigning a website, don't underestimate the role of color in creating a meaningful and impactful user experience.

Posted in Graphic Design, Website Design, Web Design Trends

Latest Graphic Design Trends for Your Branding and Marketing

Graphic design isn't just about aesthetics; it's the language that speaks for your brand. From logos to colours and fonts, visual elements define your business identity and make a lasting impression on customers. Staying attuned to graphic design trends is crucial, as these trends capture audience attention and make your brand appear modern and relevant in a competitive marketplace. In this blog, we'll explore current graphic design trends and how they can elevate your branding and marketing efforts.

Why do graphic design trends matter?

Graphic design plays a pivotal role in shaping a company's brand identity. 

It's not merely about creating aesthetically pleasing visuals; it's about crafting a visual language that communicates the essence of your brand. 

Your logo, colour scheme, typography, and overall design elements are the first things customers encounter, and they leave a lasting impression. A well-designed brand identity resonates with your target audience, instills trust, and sets you apart from competitors. 

Moreover, staying attuned to graphic design trends is essential. These trends are the pulse of contemporary aesthetics, and they have the power to captivate your audience's attention. 

When you harness the latest design trends effectively, your brand appears modern, relevant, and in touch with the times, making it more likely to stand out and engage your customers in a crowded marketplace.

Current Graphic Design Trends

Minimalism

What is minimalistic design?

Less is more, and minimalism embodies this principle perfectly. Clean lines, ample white space, and a focus on essential elements make minimalist designs visually pleasing and easy to understand. Take a look at Apple's website for a prime example of minimalistic design, where simplicity and functionality converge seamlessly.


How to Incorporate Minimalist Design

When embracing minimalism in branding, focus on simplifying your logo and visual elements. Use clean lines, a limited colour palette, and concise typography. Think of brands like Google and Airbnb, whose minimalistic logos instantly convey a sense of modernity and simplicity.  

Using Minimalist Design in Marketing Materials

Minimalistic design can be a powerful tool in marketing. Think about simplifying your email newsletters, social media visuals, or product packaging. By decluttering your marketing materials, you make your messages more accessible and memorable. 

Ensure that this minimalist approach extends to your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials. Consistency in your choice of colours and fonts helps reinforce the minimalist aesthetic throughout your brand.

Bold Typography

Typography can make or break a design, and bold typography is taking centre stage. Oversized fonts with strong, impactful messages instantly draw attention. Brands like Nike use bold typography effectively to convey their empowering messages.

 

How to Incorporate Bold Typography in Design

Integrate bold typography in your brand's messaging. Consider using bold fonts for your taglines or key brand messages to make a bold statement. Brands like Netflix use bold typography effectively in their promotional materials. 

Keep the same bold fonts consistent across all brand materials, from your website design to your business cards. Consistency in typography reinforces your brand's voice and personality. Incorporating bold typography into your ad campaigns can make your messages stand out. Consider using attention-grabbing headlines or taglines in larger, bold fonts to create an immediate impact.

Using Bold Typography in Advertisements

Incorporating bold typography into your ad campaigns can make your messages stand out. Consider using attention-grabbing headlines or taglines in larger, bold fonts to create an immediate impact.

Illustrations

Three-dimensional elements add depth and a sense of realism to designs. They can make your visuals pop and grab your audience's attention. Look at how Airbnb uses illustrations to make their online experiences more enticing.


How to Incorporate Illustrations in Design

Use illustrations to create immersive and eye-catching brand experiences. Incorporate illustrations into your website's design or product visuals. Brands like Apple employ illustrations to showcase their product features.

Ensure that the illustrations align with your brand's overall style and colour scheme. Consistency in the use of illustrations maintains a unified brand identity.

Using Illustrations in Product Promotions

Use illustrations to showcase your products or services in a dynamic and engaging way. Whether it's a virtual tour of a property or a rendering of a product, this trend can captivate your audience's imagination.

Retro and Vintage Styles

Nostalgia never goes out of style. Retro and vintage design elements are making a comeback, appealing to audiences' sense of nostalgia and authenticity. Coca-Cola, with its timeless logo, is a prime example of how a vintage design can stand the test of time.

How to Incorporate Retro and Vintage Styles in Design

To infuse your branding with a touch of nostalgia, adopt retro and vintage elements in your logo, packaging, or advertising campaigns. Brands like Levi's leverage vintage styles to connect with their heritage.

Maintain the retro vibe throughout your branding materials. Use vintage-inspired colour schemes and typography consistently to evoke the desired nostalgic feel.

Using Retro and Vintage styles in Campaigns

Leverage nostalgia to create a connection with your audience. Retro and vintage design elements can be particularly effective in advertising campaigns for products or services with a rich history or heritage.

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design

As environmental consciousness grows, sustainable design is becoming more important. Brands are adopting eco-friendly colour schemes, using recycled materials, and emphasising sustainability in their visual identity. Patagonia's commitment to eco-friendliness is reflected in its design choices.

How to Incorporate Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design: Showcase your commitment to sustainability through eco-friendly design elements. Implement earthy colour palettes, natural textures, and eco-conscious imagery in your branding. Companies like Patagonia incorporate these elements into their branding to convey their environmental values.

Ensure that sustainability is evident in your messaging and visuals across all touchpoints. Consistency in eco-friendly design reinforces your brand's dedication to environmental responsibility.

Using Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design in Branding

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Design in Branding: If your brand emphasises sustainability, carry this theme into your marketing materials. Use eco-friendly imagery, colours, and messaging to highlight your commitment to environmental responsibility.

Dark Mode Design

With the increasing prevalence of dark mode in apps and websites, dark mode design is a trend to watch. Dark backgrounds with bright accents offer a sleek and modern look. Twitter, for instance, has implemented dark mode effectively for a more comfortable nighttime viewing experience.

  Credit: Fabian Sommer / picture alliance via Getty Images

How to Incorporate Dark Mode Design

For a sleek and modern look, embrace dark mode design in your digital branding. Implement dark backgrounds with contrasting text and graphics to create a visually striking experience. Brands like Twitter offer dark mode options for users.

Maintain dark mode design consistently across your website, mobile app, and other digital assets. Consistency ensures a seamless user experience and reinforces your brand's modern aesthetic.

Using Dark Mode Design in Promotions

If you have a mobile app or website, consider offering a dark mode option. Promote this feature in your marketing materials to appeal to users who prefer a sleek, modern look.

Abstract and Artistic Elements

Abstract and artistic design elements can add a touch of creativity and intrigue to your brand. They allow for more artistic freedom and can be used to express complex ideas in a visually appealing way. Spotify uses abstract art in its promotional materials to capture the spirit of music.


 Credit: picture via Marketing Mag

How to Incorporate Abstract and Artistic Elements in Design

Infuse your brand with creativity by using abstract and artistic elements in your visuals and graphics. These elements can add a unique and intriguing dimension to your branding. Spotify, for instance, uses abstract art in its marketing materials.

While embracing abstract elements, make sure they align with your brand's message and identity. Consistency in the use of abstract art maintains a coherent brand image.

Using Abstract and Artistic Elements in Creative Content

Inject creativity into your marketing materials with abstract and artistic design elements. These can be particularly useful for conveying complex ideas or emotions in a visually appealing way.

In a world driven by visuals, graphic design trends matter more than ever. They're the brushstrokes that paint your brand's identity and the melodies that resonate with your audience. From minimalism to bold typography, illustrations to sustainable design, and dark mode to abstract art, these trends offer a dynamic toolbox to enhance your branding and marketing efforts.

Ready to transform your branding and marketing efforts with the latest graphic design trends? Contact us today!

Posted in Branding, Graphic Design, Marketing, Web Design Trends, Website Design

Minimalist Web Design: Stripping Down for Maximum Impact

Minimalist web design is more than just a visual aesthetic; it's a philosophy that embodies the elegance of simplicity, precision, and purpose-driven design. It embraces the principle of "less is more," where every design element serves a deliberate role in enhancing the user experience. In this exploration of minimalist web design, we'll delve into its core principles, uncover the underlying philosophy, and understand how it shapes the world of web development.

What is Minimalist Web Design?

Minimalist web design is a philosophy that champions simplicity, precision, and purposeful design. It's a style that embodies the adage "less is more," where every design element has a specific role and contributes to the overall user experience. Let's delve into the core principles that define minimalist design and its impact on web development.

Defining Simplicity, Clean Lines, and Whitespace

At its core, minimalist design is characterised by its commitment to simplicity. Clean lines, uncluttered layouts, and an emphasis on whitespace are defining characteristics. Elements are stripped down to their essential forms, ensuring that each element serves a clear purpose. By employing clean lines, the design achieves a sense of elegance and sophistication that draws users' attention to the content that truly matters.

Only Use the Essential Elements

Minimalist web design is all about making deliberate choices when it comes to design elements. It's not about sacrificing necessary elements but rather prioritising what truly matters. This principle encourages designers to critically evaluate each element's role in the user experience. By focusing on essential components, clutter is eliminated, leading to a cleaner, more enjoyable interface.

Philosophy of "Less is More" in Design

The philosophy of "less is more" lies at the heart of minimalist design. This principle, often attributed to the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, underscores the notion that simplicity and refinement can have a more significant impact than complex embellishments. In the context of web design, this philosophy advocates for removing distractions and extraneous elements, allowing users to focus on the content and goals of the website.

What Makes Web Design Minimalistic?

Minimalist web design is underpinned by several key principles that work together to create an effective and impactful user experience. Let's explore these principles and understand how they contribute to the minimalist aesthetic.

Whitespace and Layout

Whitespace, also known as negative space, is the area between elements on a web page. It's a fundamental aspect of minimalist design as it creates visual breathing room, allowing users to focus on the essential elements. This spaciousness enhances the overall aesthetic and readability of the design. By judiciously using whitespace, designers can prevent visual clutter and help guide users' attention to the most crucial content. This enhances user engagement and interaction by making navigation intuitive and content consumption seamless.

Color Palette and Typography

Minimalist design often employs a limited colour palette to maintain a cohesive and harmonious visual identity. The use of a restrained colour scheme can convey a sense of sophistication and professionalism. Typography, another integral aspect, is carefully chosen to enhance readability and match the overall design ethos. Clear and legible fonts contribute to a clean and polished appearance, making the content easily digestible for users.

Simplicity in Navigation

Navigation menus in minimalist web design are purposefully streamlined. The focus is on providing users with straightforward and intuitive pathways to the information they seek. Minimalistic navigation menus avoid overwhelming users with excessive options, reducing cognitive load and decision fatigue. Hidden navigation elements or simplified menu structures ensure that users can easily navigate the website without distraction, leading to a more positive user experience.

Visual Hierarchy

Minimalist design leverages visual hierarchy to guide users through the content and highlight important elements. By strategically placing design elements and content, designers direct users' attention to specific focal points, such as call-to-action buttons, important messages, or featured products. Minimalist design amplifies the impact of these focal points, making them more compelling and memorable. The simplicity of the design aids in communicating these focal points clearly and effectively.

Benefits of Minimalist Web Design

Minimalist web design isn't just about aesthetics; it offers a range of benefits that positively impact user experience, performance, and branding. Let's explore how adopting a minimalist approach can lead to a more effective and impactful website.

Faster Loading Times

One of the immediate advantages of minimalist web design is a responsive website with faster loading times. With fewer elements to load, the website's pages become lighter and more efficient. This speed is crucial in today's digital landscape where users expect instant access to information. Quicker loading times not only enhance the user experience by reducing frustration but also contribute to improved SEO rankings. Search engines favour fast-loading websites, which can result in higher search engine visibility and better organic traffic.

Enhanced User Experience

Clutter-free designs directly translate into improved user engagement. With only essential elements on the page, users can focus on the content that matters most. This focused experience leads to better comprehension of the information and easier navigation. Additionally, minimalist designs often lead to seamless and intuitive user interactions. Clear calls-to-action, simplified navigation, and unobtrusive design elements guide users effortlessly through the website, resulting in a positive and enjoyable browsing experience.

Strong Brand Identity

Minimalist design has the unique ability to make a brand's message and values stand out prominently. By eliminating distractions and unnecessary elements, the core essence of the brand is highlighted. This focused representation reinforces brand identity and messaging, allowing users to quickly grasp the brand's purpose and values. Additionally, the memorable impression that a well-executed minimalist design leaves on visitors can foster a stronger emotional connection with the brand, potentially leading to increased brand loyalty and trust.

How can I Implement Minimalist Web Design?

Designing a minimalist website requires careful planning and thoughtful execution. Here are some tips and best practices to guide you in creating a clean, impactful, and user-friendly minimalist design.

4 Tips for Implementing Minimalistic Web Design

1. Start with a Clear Goal

Before you dive into design decisions, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your website's purpose and target audience. Define the primary goals of the website – whether it's to showcase products, provide information, or encourage engagement. Tailor your design choices to align with these goals and the expectations of your intended audience. This clarity will guide your design decisions and help you create a minimalist design that serves its purpose effectively.

2. Prioritise Content

In a minimalist design, content takes centre stage. Prioritise the essential content and messaging that directly support your website's goals. Trim away any unnecessary elements that don't contribute to the user experience or hinder the message you're conveying. This practice ensures that users can quickly and easily find the information they're seeking, leading to a more engaging and efficient interaction.

3. Consistency is Key

Consistency in design elements is vital for a polished and cohesive minimalist design. Establish a set of design guidelines for typography, colour palette, button styles, and other visual elements. Apply these guidelines consistently across all pages of your website. This consistency creates a seamless user experience and reinforces your brand's identity. It also helps users navigate the website with ease, knowing what to expect from page to page.

4. Mobile Responsiveness

Minimalist design naturally lends itself to responsive and mobile-friendly layouts. The emphasis on clean lines and essential elements aligns well with the challenges of designing for different screen sizes. As you implement your minimalist design, ensure that it translates seamlessly to mobile devices. Prioritise a responsive layout that maintains the same level of visual clarity and user-friendliness, regardless of the screen dimensions. This approach guarantees a positive user experience across all devices.

In a world inundated with information and distractions, minimalist web design emerges as a beacon of clarity and focus. It's a philosophy that champions the essential, prioritises the user experience, and fosters a sense of harmony between form and function. By embracing clean lines, thoughtful whitespace, and purposeful design elements, minimalist web design transforms digital spaces into inviting and intuitive experiences.

As you venture into the realm of web development, remember that minimalist design isn't about sacrificing creativity; it's about channeling creativity into purposeful choices. By understanding the principles, appreciating the philosophy, and implementing the best practices of minimalist design, you can create digital landscapes that resonate with users, elevate brands, and stand the test of time. The journey to harnessing the power of simplicity begins here – by embracing the elegance of minimalist web design.

Ready to transform your web presence with minimalist design? Contact us now to craft a visually captivating and user-friendly website.

Posted in Marketing, Website Design, Web Design Trends, Responsive Design

The Benefits of a Custom Designed Website

typing on a laptop computer

In today's digital age, having a robust online presence is essential for businesses to thrive and succeed. Consumers turn to the internet to discover, research and engage with brands. So your website serves as the virtual face of your business. And it is your first impression for your potential customers. This plays a pivotal role in shaping their perception of your brand. Investing in a customised website design means it will be tailored for your specific business and your brand. Rather than your business and brand shoved into a generic template like so many web companies use. 

In this article, we will explore the benefits of a custom-built and designed website and why it is the best choice for businesses in today's competitive landscape.

 

What is a custom-built and designed website

A custom-built and designed website is a one tailored to specific requirements. The alternative is a web-template; a pre-designed layout with pre-defined space for undefined content. 

Unlike pre-made templates or generic website builders, a custom website is developed from scratch and tailored to reflect the business's unique brand identity, values, and objectives. 

It involves a collaborative process between the business owner, skilled web designers, and developers, who work closely to create a fully personalised online presence. 

Every aspect, from the layout, colour scheme, and typography to the functionality and user interface, is carefully designed and optimised to align with the brand's vision and deliver an exceptional user experience. 

With a custom website, businesses are showcased in the optimal way. Presenting their brand they best way possible rather than shoved into pre-defined spaces that don't suit. 
It's basically the difference between having a new suit or wedding dress tailor made vs ordering something from Temu or Wish. 

 

The benefits of custom-built and designed website:

Unique Brand Identity:

A custom-designed website allows for a unique and tailored look that aligns with your brand identity. Templates are often used by multiple users, resulting in similar or identical designs. A custom design ensures that your website stands out and reflects the uniqueness of your brand.

Tailored Functionality:

Custom-designed websites can be built with specific functionalities and features that cater to your business requirements. Templates may have limitations in terms of customization and may not support the exact features you need.

Optimized Performance:

Custom designs enable developers to optimize the website for performance. This includes faster loading times, efficient code, and a better overall user experience. Generic templates might have unnecessary code or features that can impact performance negatively.

Scalability:

Custom websites are more scalable, allowing for future expansion and integration of new features as your business grows. A template might not provide the flexibility needed for future changes and enhancements.


Search Engine Optimization (SEO):

Custom websites can be optimized for search engines based on specific SEO strategies. This is often more challenging with generic templates, which may have limitations in terms of SEO customization.

Responsive Design:

Custom designs can be created with responsiveness in mind, ensuring that the website looks and functions well across various devices and screen sizes. While some templates are responsive, they may not provide the level of control needed for a seamless user experience.

Security:

Custom websites can be built with security in mind, incorporating best practices to protect against vulnerabilities. Templates may not prioritize security features, potentially exposing your website to security risks.

User Experience (UX):

Custom designs allow for a more personalized and user-centric approach to UX design. This can result in a website that is intuitive, easy to navigate, and tailored to the preferences of your target audience.

Ownership and Control:

With a custom-designed website, you have full ownership and control over the code, design, and functionality. Template-based solutions may come with restrictions on customization and ownership rights.

Long-Term Cost Efficiency:

While the initial cost of a custom-designed website may be higher, it can be more cost-effective in the long run. Custom websites are often easier to maintain and update, reducing ongoing costs compared to templates that may require constant adjustments.

 

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

Why is it important?

  • Search engine optimisation (SEO) is crucial for improving your website's visibility and driving organic traffic from search engines. 
  • This includes optimising on-page elements such as headings, image alt tags, and internal linking structure to improve keyword relevance and overall crawlability for search engines.
  • By considering SEO from the start and integrating it into the design process, you can ensure your website is well-optimised and search engine friendly.

How are custom websites better for SEO?

  • A customised website design provides a solid foundation for effective SEO. By working closely with web designers and developers, you can ensure that your website is built with SEO best practices in mind. 
  • Custom design allows for the optimisation of technical elements such as site structure, mobile responsiveness, and page loading speed, which are critical ranking factors for search engines. 
  • Additionally, a customised design allows for creating SEO-friendly URLs, meta tags, and structured data, further enhancing your website's visibility in search engine results pages.


Scalability

Why is it important?

  • Businesses evolve and grow over time, and your website needs to keep up with these changes. 
  • A custom website design provides the flexibility to adapt to the changing needs of your business.
  • Whether you're introducing new products or services, expanding into new markets, or repositioning your brand, a custom design allows you to make necessary adjustments to your website without limitations. 
  • By having a website that can grow and evolve alongside your business, you can ensure that it remains relevant and effective in meeting your goals.

How do custom websites allow you to scale more easily?

  • Scalability is a crucial aspect of a successful online presence. As your business expands, your website should be able to accommodate increased traffic, content, and functionality. 
  • Custom website design offers the advantage of scalability, allowing you to quickly scale up your website's infrastructure, such as server capacity and database management, to handle growing demands. 
  • A custom design also enables future modifications and enhancements to be implemented seamlessly without disrupting the overall functionality and user experience. Whether it's adding new features, integrating third-party tools, or improving performance, a custom website design provides the flexibility to evolve with your business.

Security and Performance

Why is it important?

  • Website security is of paramount importance. With increasing cybersecurity threats and data breaches, businesses need to prioritise the security of their websites. 
  • A single security breach can have severe consequences, including compromised customer data, damaged reputation, and financial loss. 
    Highlight the importance of website security by discussing the potential risks businesses face and the impact it can have on their operations.
  • Emphasise the need for robust security measures to protect sensitive information, build trust with customers, and comply with data protection regulations.

How are custom websites more secure?

  • A custom website design allows for a proactive approach to security. By working with experienced web developers, businesses can implement tailored security measures based on their specific needs and requirements. 
  • Custom designs enable the integration of advanced security features such as SSL certificates, encrypted data transmission, secure user authentication systems, and regular security audits. 
  • Additionally, custom designs allow for rigorous code reviews, vulnerability testing, and timely security updates, ensuring that the website stays protected against emerging threats.

How are custom websites better performing?

  • Website performance and loading speed are critical factors that impact user experience and search engine rankings. 
  • Custom website design allows for optimising performance by carefully crafting the website's architecture, code structure, and asset optimisation. 
  • Custom designs enable developers to minimise unnecessary code, leverage caching mechanisms, and optimise image sizes, resulting in faster loading times.

Cost-effectiveness

Are custom websites more expensive?

  • There is a common misconception that custom website design is expensive, deterring some businesses from considering it as an option. 
  • However, it's essential to address this misconception and highlight the value and long-term cost-effectiveness of a custom design. 
  • Custom website design offers tailored solutions specifically crafted to meet your business objectives and target audience. 
  • While the initial investment may be higher compared to template-based designs, the benefits and savings, in the long run, outweigh the upfront costs.

How are custom websites more cost-effective in the long run?

  • A custom website design brings several long-term cost benefits. A custom design ensures scalability and flexibility, allowing your website to grow and evolve as your business expands. 
  • This eliminates the need for frequent redesigns or extensive modifications, which can be costly. 
  • Additionally, a custom design provides better performance, optimised code, and streamlined functionality, reducing maintenance and hosting expenses over time. 
  • Custom designs are also more durable, built with the latest web standards and technologies, ensuring longevity and compatibility with future updates.

In summary, while generic templates can be a quick and affordable solution, a custom-designed website offers greater flexibility, uniqueness, and long-term benefits that align closely with specific business needs and objectives.

Looking for experienced custom web designer and developers in Christchurch? View our portfolio here and get in contact with us today!

Posted in Marketing, Web Design Trends, Website Design, Responsive Design

Web Design - What to Expect in 2021

web design icons connected graphic

2020 was the year where conducting business online became essential, thanks to Covid. 


Consumers were either in lockdown or practising social distancing, and company websites became a vital link for e-commerce and conveying important safety information. We saw many companies pivot to online sales and focus their efforts on improving web design functionality. The pandemic has influenced the messaging behind website design too, with many organisations adopting a kinder, more empathetic tone. 


So what does 2021 have in store?  We expect web design in NZ this year to capitalise on the learnings of 2020, and more small businesses will look to start or improve their website design in NZ.


Visual Trends


Clean minimal designs are making a comeback in 2021, often with a focus on bold and creative typography.  Blur is another feature showing up in many new websites, allowing developers to create a suggestion of depth and separate foreground from background. Noise, grain and other visual effects are another popular technique to give your site a more natural feel that is less clinical. In general, expect to see website visuals that offer a positive, helpful and healthy vibe. Kindness is ‘in’. 


Animation and 3D effects were often discouraged in the past because they took too long to load, but HTML5 technology has changed the landscape. We’re seeing some beautiful 3D motion, animation and interactive UI design elements out there. The popularity of animated emojis on mobile platforms has seen a parallel increase in the use of GIFs in web design. Who would have thought GIFs would be so popular in 2021! Lottie files are a new lightweight, scalable animation format that works on all devices—one of the many innovative new web animation technologies bringing websites to life.


No Code/Low Code 


As part of the drive to make websites more functional, transactional and economical, many designers and developers are turning to no-code or low-code tools and apps to provide back-end functions. These cloud-based tools can be linked together to offer services such as data collection, e-commerce, and database management. The term ‘no code’ can be a little misleading, as these technologies still demand a level of skill that requires input from professional website designers.


Community


There is a strong movement for more engagement by SME’s in their local communities, and we envisage guest blogging, online competitions and other collaborations will become increasingly popular this year. Optimising websites for local search will be a big focus too, as businesses have learnt how important it is to be visible to customers in your area. The risk of cancellation has led many organisations to switch to virtual events, including streamed concerts, online conferences and even fashion shows. The technology costs for streaming have dropped dramatically, and we believe more businesses will start to incorporate live stream features into their websites.


Less Social Media 


There is concern about the increasing power social media companies have over the internet, but there is also growing resistance and pushback from consumers. We expect to see business owners redirect some of their social media budgets into website optimisation and content marketing. There is good reason to be a little sceptical about the advertising metrics provided by platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, as you can only take the information at face value. Analytics from your website give a much better indication of traffic volumes and sales conversions.


Integration


Integrating your website into your business software eco-system is the final trend we think will accelerate this year, as cloud-based integration tools become cheaper and more sophisticated. Some of the many options for integration include:

  • Feeding contact form details into your CRM application
  • Passing Shopify data into Xero 
  • Capturing website bookings with Calendly

If it’s time to give your website a boost—talk to the team at Activate Design. We do web design, graphic design, app development, branding, content marketing and SEO optimisation. We’d love to hear from you.

 

Posted in Web Design Trends, Website Design

The 7 Hottest Mobile Website Trends for 2019

computer screens and mobile devices

There’s no need to explain how important it is to have a mobile-friendly website these days—it’s a given that most people will be browsing on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, particularly in the consumer space.


Creating responsive design websites that conform to the latest mobile technology trends becomes even more essential when you consider that Google indexing gives priority to mobile sites. If you or your client doesn’t have a mobile responsive website, you’re undoubtedly missing out on valuable traffic.
To help you keep on top of mobile technology trends, we’ve gathered together seven of the hottest mobile website trends for 2019:


1. Progressive Web Apps


Progressive web apps (or PWA’s) have been around for a while, but there is renewed interest in them as mobile browsers become more capable. There is still some confusion as to what constitutes a PWA, but in general, they are mobile web pages that act like apps, including the ability to function offline. For small companies, they offer a lower cost of entry into the world of apps that can be offered directly to their customers, without the need for app store involvement.


2. Load Speed

Optimising page load times is going to be a big focus in 2019, as mobile e-commerce continues to grow, and users demand a snappy UI with fast response times. Good code will undoubtedly improve page load times, and the quality and speed of your server can be a real pinch point. Google recommends webmaster minimise or eliminate redirects on your site. This site provides a handy tool that maps the number of redirects on your site.


3. Mobile payments


As mobile payment platforms like Apple Pay, Google Wallet and even Facebook Messenger become more broadly supported by banks and retailers, it creates more trust in the notion of mobile payments. Mobile website developers need to capitalise on this trend by ensuring their sites offer frictionless payment options for users.


4. Touch ID


The growth of mobile payments is further boosted by support for Touch ID technology. Built into virtually all recent smartphones, Touch ID offers peace of mind. By integrating this fingerprint security into your mobile website or web app, you demonstrate to your customers that their security is important to you.


5. Short-form content


Long-form content has long been accepted as a good way to improve SEO and increase traffic. However, research is showing that short form, video-centric content is better suited to mobile sites and is expected to grow in popularity this year. Animations, short quizzes and other interactive content are more likely to hold audience attention than blog posts or long-form articles.


6. Gestures


Another way to make your mobile site more ‘app like’ is by adding support for gestures. Swiping, pinching and zooming are all familiar interactions on a mobile device, and it makes sense to use the same OS gestures on your mobile site or web app.


7. Functional Animations


Functional animations are simple motion elements that are built into your UI. They help guide users by, for example, changing a button shape when a user taps on it. Used well, they can bring your site to life and encourage the people to explore the site. Like gestures, they give visitors to your mobile site a more interactive, app-like experience. The best functional animations are those that serve a genuine purpose and integrate well into the site design.

Does your site need some mobile optimisation? Talk to the team at Activate Design for more tips and advice.

 

Posted in Web Design Trends

Infinite scrolling website design

Infinite scrolling is a web design trend that is making waves in todays website landscape. It is simply the ability of a page to infinitely produce more content so that the user can scroll down the page uninterrupted. No more clicking. If you’re a social media buff or a Pinterest personality you will have come across this tool, perhaps without even noticing.

A technology that has grown from the increasing amount of tablet and smartphone users, infinite scrolling provides an easier way to navigate through websites on all devices. It has even progressed to being used as a complete navigation system in websites dubbed as infinite scrolling websites. It is fabulous for some websites but has suffered some teething problems with others. Though it appears simplistic and sleek, endless scrolling can result in confusion and frustration for users when applied inappropriately to websites.

To start with the positives, infinite scrolling can be a powerful tool that when executed well can expose users to more content and improve their experience. Infinite scrolling is hugely effective on websites that specialise in low engagement content (content that does not require active engagement or encourage interaction). Social media sites benefit hugely from this technology because as a rule, the content is taken at face value and every piece of content has the potential to be interesting to the user, meaning that scrolling through a lot of content is not a problem. It provides a more efficient and intuitive way to navigate through a ton of content that requires little action. When done well, the user experiences a truly responsive website that caters for their needs seamlessly.

However, for other sites that require the user to actively engage in their content, to click a button and interact with it, infinite scrolling can cause problems. The endless amount of content can overwhelm users and decrease the value of each piece of content. This can then inhibit user engagement and take away from what the website has to offer.

Infinite scrolling is seen to take the control away from the user, something that is an instinctive need for humans. With the alternative, a user has a defined amount of pages to search and can pick and choose when they have seen enough. With infinite scrolling, the user has no idea when the content is going to run out, or how relevant it is to them and requires the user to simply continue scrolling. If you leave a website feeling that it wasted your time you are unlikely to have a positive response to it.

This is where we are faced with a problem; how do you balance usability on devices, expose the user to more content, and keep them actively engaged? A good compromise is hybrid technology that relinquishes control to the user, yet allows them to scroll through websites using any device, with ease. To achieve a hybrid website all that is required is to predefine the number of pages before a prompt appears asking the user if they would like to see more content. It’s as simple as that to give back control to the user and maintain a consistent data load on the server.

Whether you choose to make a full-blown infinite scrolling website or a hybrid, there are a few things that can help make this tool more effective.

To ensure that the website is seamlessly infinite, Lazy Load content ahead of the user. However, despite the use of this technology, you can’t help when some users skip ahead faster than the preloaded content. In this situation it is essential to provide the user with a visual cue to tell them more content is loading. This way you can keep the user in the loop, letting them know that the site is still working and deter them from leaving. Although this ‘loading’ cue is necessary, it should hardly ever be seen.

The largest issues with infinite scrolling are down to navigational ease. Problems arise when the user navigates away from the infinite scrolling page. Often they will lose their place and when they return the site bumps the user back to the start. This is extremely annoying and can be enough to turn away users from your site as they are forced to spend time scrolling their way back. To remedy this problem, make sure you keep back button functionality so that the user can redirect themselves to the correct spot with just a click of a button. This is also useful to help the user maintain a sense of perspective and control, two things that are important to achieve in order for the website to be comfortable and intuitive to use.  An alternative is to program content to open in a new window when clicked. This option has been the cause of much debate as it is said to take control away from the user, and can also cause discomfort on smaller devices.

Infinite scrolling websites can lose their basic navigation systems all together which makes it very hard for a user to access the different regions of the site. The navigational bar is often lost as the user scrolls down the page, and the footer can never be found because of the constant stream of content being uploaded. Making sure the navigation bar at the top of the website is maintained despite scrolling down the page is wise, the user can then make their way to another part of the website without having to scroll all the way back to the top of the page. Having a footer, and being able to access it, is extremely important as it is there to provide important information about the site. The footer is often the last resort for a user to locate a specific topic. If the user can’t find the footer then they are likely to give up and discontinue using the website. A hybrid website can be the solution to this problem, as the prompt and footer can appear simultaneously, giving the user a chance to utilise it.

Lastly make sure you filter, filter, filter. Program the most relevant content to appear at the top of the page. Then hopefully, the user will be able to recognise when content becomes less relevant and can stop scrolling. This gives them the control over the amount of content they are exposed to. It’s best to try not to waste the users time as it will cause them to avoid using your website in the future.

This trend is growing and with more insights on how to use endless scrolling technology to its best advantage, it can only continue to become more effective. To see some examples of successful infinite scrolling websites, click here.

Posted in Website Design, Web Design Trends

Top Trending Website Design Inspirations

As professional web designers and developers, you’re visiting probably well over a thousand websites a month in order to stay up to date with trendy design and to generate ideas for your own projects. With the design landscape changing so frequently and fast, how do we stay current, and more importantly, how do we stay motivated to create the best websites possible? Better yet, how do we find the time?!

Web design is the so hot right now and the web is constantly expanding, growing and flourishing. This is due to the fact that people are genuinely interested in getting involved with the development of the web. And this makes us…happy. That’s right, we’re happy that the web is growing and evolving at a rapid rate because it means that we’re Responsive Website Designconstantly seeing new design trends. We’re hoping that this will eventually result in a web that is based solely on excellent design rather than just function or purpose. The revolution may not happen yet, but we believe it’s in the works…

We’re been trawling the web looking for the most inspiring design trends so you won’t have to! Have a look, take some notes and get ready to revamp your web design style!

  1. Keep on Scrolling: When you combine storytelling with user experience it often gets you a long page narrative. Websites will keep on experimenting with this more and more in the future. Clicking is so early 2000. This new scrolling is called long scrolling and it means is that all of your website’s pages can be viewed by vertically scrolling up or down. Boom. Easy. People have less and less time these days and getting lost navigating your pages is the last thing they want to do. One page websites are the new things. Keep an eye out for parallax scrolling too, which is a special scrolling technique where the background images move by the camera slower than foreground images, thus creating an illusion of depth and adding to the immersion experience.
  2. Make it Personal: People don’t want their only reactions to be with machines. Writing personal content is the best way to make your customers trust you. Good content is the only way for you to connect with your online audience, so write it like a human would, not a Cyborg. It’s no big secret that people perceive and process information easier when it’s delivered with graphic aids. Big content blocks are also great both for responsive web design and storytelling. The blocks focus readers’ attention on one statement at a time and become even more powerful when combined with bold web fonts, lots of whitespace, separated with colours, and matched with strong images.
  3. Responsive Design!: This web design approach is aimed at crafting sites to provide an optimal viewing experience for customers. The easy reading, navigation, panning, and scrolling across a wide range of devices like mobile phones to desktop computer monitors is quickly becoming the standard for business, and if you don’t comply, your Google ranking is going to suffer. Responsive design makes set website design look archaic.  Get on board if you want to stay up to date.
  4. Simple Design!: Simple design is a misnomer. It’s not implying that it’s easy to do, but rather it refers to the use of the best practices so site visitors get what they need without complication. Simple design embraces powerful images and meaningful content. It showcases purposeful navigation. Remember that ol’ saying: Keep It Simple, Stupid. This applies to the following:
  • Simple Animations: The one other trend that has taken off after the release of iOS7 is the use of simple animations. These are subtle animations that give affordance and personality to the design that you see on websites and apps. You can see it in gestures, for example when you move up and down the chat bubbles in Messages where the bubbles bump against one another.
  • Simple Colours: Over the last year, bold and bright colours have been making a name for themselves but light and subtle colour combinations are on trend now.

Psst…Pantone colours to watch out for:

Placid Blue: This is the ultimate light blue pastel shade. Associated with peace and serenity, this dreamy blue goes well with any pastel shades and classic bolds.

Violet Tulip: If you haven’t guessed by the name, this is a lavender shade. It’s a very romantic and vintage hue that pairs well with bolds.

Hemlock: This is a light green, almost pistachio, with a hint of the orient. It differs much from the trendy mint and emerald hues with its tenderness. All three of these shades perfectly combine with each other and with brighter colours.

  1. Tell Me a Story: Storytelling Design is similar to writing good content but I want to take it further. Storytelling design tells a story through concise, compelling copy coupled with strong imagery as users scroll down the page. It’s the best way companies can get their customers to connect with them. You’re telling a brand story now! You’re not just creating a website that brags how great your services are. The marketplace is saturated with businesses just like yours. But your story can make you stand out. So tell it well.
  2. Hey Flatty: Flat UI is a mix of fun and smooth colours, combined with complete and total simplicity, which brings websites and web applications to life. Giants like Apple and Microsoft are getting on board, so it’s time for you to embrace it too. Flat design focuses on simplicity and clarity and helps websites get rid of their excess clutter. Users can then focus on the content and overall the user experience becomes more enjoyable. Flat UI just going to keep growing so take the time to study it.
  3. Video Killed the Radio Star: There are only so many great copy writers out there and you don’t want your customers reading all day. Change things up by creating videos that get your message across. You can get creative and even cheeky with video. The right videos can go viral, so it’s worth considering if you’re looking for potential word of mouth advertising. Video content is becoming easier and cheaper to produce and crisp HD photos can easily make your website look professional, attractive while getting your message across. We’re social animals and there’s no better tool than a good video for storytelling. Videos can stir our emotions and create a closer connection better than just well written text. Watching a video can entice your users to linger longer on your page, thus allowing them to get to know your brand better.
  4. Don’t Believe the Type: Make a name for your brand with personalised fonts. Fonts have evolved in the last few years, with services like Google Fonts offering hundreds of free fonts to choose from. There is a definite potential to create something more memorable with branded fonts to get your message across. The websites using these fonts say that they’re independent, trailblazing and downright sassy.  It’s a strong message that works. In addition to this, big chunky font is trending.
  5. Take a Ride: Fixed Navigation is the new way to go. Websites that integrate social media, search and even purchase options within their fixed ‘navbars’ make the user experience more accessible and continuous. We’ll be seeing plenty of changes in this area in the years to come. The main purpose of the fixed technique is to keep the navigation bar constantly visible for the users as they scroll down which makes it easier for them and makes the experience more enjoyable.  Stripped-down navigation is a trend that looks set to grow in popularity and we’re going to see a lot more focus on icons, roll-downs, and navigation that shrinks as you start to scroll down the page.
  6. Blurred Lines: Since the release of iOS 7 last summer, designers have been using blurred backgrounds as a source of inspiration like crazy. You essentially overlay interfaces, creating a “shower door” type look with these multiple blurred backgrounds. It actually creates pretty attractive nonlinear gradients which can make your website stand out.

And there you have it, some of the best trends coming your way in 2014. Just remember that a decent design should serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. The best design comes from designing for the user’s needs by applying best practices. Don’t follow trends for the sake of it – if you don’t like a certain trend then use a different technique that suits your style.

Now, if we could just a drumroll so we can say a proper goodbye to the following trends that have assaulted our eyes for too long…

  • Overused stock photos
  • Auto-play videos and music
  • Automated popups
  • Advertising sidebars
  • Inane blog posts
  • Loading and Reloading pages
  • Modal windows with hidden or tiny close commands
  • Small, impossible to read font sizes
  • Long shadows: why?! WHY?!!
  • Hipster icons and logos

Goodbye and good riddance!

Posted in Website Design, Graphic Design, Web Design Trends

9 web design UI mistakes to avoid

http internet image Everyone makes mistakes—even web designers. However, some mistakes can be disastrous, such as those that affect traffic. You never want users to click away because the site’s interface is too complicated to navigate. According to akamai.com, 79% of shoppers who are not happy with a website will probably not return a second time. Decrease your bounce rate instead by avoiding these common web design mistakes.

 

1. Slow-loading web pages

The time it takes for a page to load plays an important role in a visitor’s experience. Most people do not have the patience to wait, even if it means loading web design ‘extras’. In addition, page loading time affects your search engine rankings. A study by gomez.com found that more customers abandon a website the longer it takes to load. In fact, another study on the tagman.com blog found a one-second delay can result in a 7 percent loss in customer conversions.

So how can you prevent slow loading pages?

One way is to watch out for large images. They look great, but can slow things down considerably, taking as much as 10 times as long to load than normal-sized images. There are other ways to prevent large images from becoming a problem, including compressing large images, browser caching, and combining images into CSS sprites. And never use images just for filler - they should always enhance the user experience.

2. Unclear links

Links are important, but can easily get in the way of navigation.

  • They should always be easy to identify. Unfortunately, some web designers insert links in the same colour as the rest of the text on the page, making it impossible to tell the difference.
  • The link area should also be large enough to click on. If the area is too small, users can become frustrated. There has to be some type of emphasis made to the links so that they stand out.

The same is true of visited links. If they revert to the default colour, users won’t know if they already clicked on them. Users need to understand where they have been to be able to figure out where to go next. You don’t want them to click on the same links over and over again just to end up on the same pages.

3. Confusing external links

There are two schools of thought when it comes to how to open external links. Some designers believe external links should always open in a separate window so that you don’t risk losing your visitor to another site. Other designers think it’s better to give the user an option. Their argument is that opening extra windows can be confusing because it disables the Back button. A user with a small screen can also get inundated with multiple open windows. Although it is a personal web designing decision, it is probably best to have links open in a separate window so that you reduce lost traffic.

4. Missing search functions

Most users have some idea what they are looking for when they go to a web page. If a website is more than a single page, a search bar is essential. Even though there are users who prefer to search Google regardless of the search bar on your website, leaving it out will alienate many users. According to user testing by Nielsen Norman Group, web users expect a website to have a search box with a button labeled “search” that provides a search engine results page (SERP). Including a search function is easy. There is no need to code your own. Either use the built-in search functionality of a WordPress platform or install a Google search bar on your site so users don’t have to leave.

5. Registration rules

There are few things more frustrating on the Internet than finding a website that has what you think you need, only to be required to register before you can actually see it. It is a waste of time, especially if it turns out not to be what you were really looking for. Don’t alienate your visitors. At least give users try out the site so they can make an educated decision about whether or not to register. If you believe in your product, you don’t need to trick users into registering. Instead, they will like what they see and immediately want more.

6. Small mistakes

If you want to decrease your bounce rates and increase your conversation rates, the little things can make a big difference:

Don’t autoplay auto and video. Visitors find it annoying when they land on a website that starts blaring content immediately. They usually click right out of there, never to return. Let them control their own experience by giving them the option of pressing play on their own terms.

Include contact info. When visitors go to your site to find out how to reach someone, they don’t want to be disappointed. Clicking around a website to find contact information is just plain annoying. It is good customer service to display your contact info clearly on your landing page. It doesn’t have to be your personal information - calls don’t have to go to your mobile. But at least post an email or contact form that bots don’t scan. You can even direct them to your Twitter or Facebook page.

Store the important stuff. The one thing worse than having to enter information on a website is having to do it twice. Don’t ask visitors for information they just gave you. If the data is important enough that you need it, save it automatically the first time.

Communicate. Things happen. No matter how well you stay on top of your site, sometimes visitors are going to end up with an Error Message. Don’t leave them hanging. Briefly explain what happened on the Error Page. And while you’re at it, why not add a link back to the homepage so they can get back on track. Adding a search bar is a bonus.

7. Design inconsistency

Although an attractive website is important, readability is the key to an effective website. Gear your site toward your target audience, because it has a direct impact on how they see the quality of your business and services.  The site should behave the way a user expects it to so that they always feel in control of the experience.

For example:

Text needs to be scannable. What’s the best way to achieve that?

  • Small chunks of text
  • Bulleted lists
  • Highlighted key words
  • Larger font size
  • Appropriate font
  • Line height
  • Contrast
  • Simple writing

Don’t add distractions like confusing background colours, strange links colours, etc. Your design principles need to remain fluid.

8. Alienating your visitors

Incorporate graceful degradation or progressive enhancement, complicated sounding terms for very simple concepts.

Graceful degradation is the process of building functionality while keeping in mind the needs of all of your visitors - even those with lower level browsers. You can design your site for modern browsers, but still make it usable for people who never update their browsers. You don’t want to lose those visitors.

Progressive enhancement is the reverse. Design your site for lower level browsers but have it increase functionality automatically for visitors with more advanced browsers. You can’t control what type of browser your visitor is using, so be proactive.

While you are at it, test your layout in several browsers, or at least Firefox, Chrome and Internet Explorer. It should work in all three.

9. Off-putting carousels

Anyone with access to the Internet knows that if a promo box looks like an advertisement, people are going to ignore it - especially if it is located on the right side of the page. (Studies show that people look to the left first when reading a web page.) Carousels are just as useless. They look like ads. Auto-rotating carousels - those that show a new panel every 5 seconds or so - are the worst. Most people don’t’ have time to read the text before it disappears and won’t want to wait around for it to come back. Auto-rotating carousels are particularly frustrating for people for whom English is not their first language and slow readers.

Remember…keep it simple.

….And three last mistakes to avoid:

  • Never design a full Flash website. A large number of mobile devices don’t support Flash, making it a bad idea to put important content in it. When the dreaded blank box appears on a screen, you’ve just lost another visitor. Switch to HTML5 for your videos.
  • Stay away from animated GIFs. They are so distracting that your visitor doesn’t know where to look first. As are too many widgets. There are some you need to include for social media purposes, but many of them are just a waste of space.
  • No horizontal scrolling. Ever.

Check out your website - have you made any of these mistakes? Fortunately most of them are quick fixes and the team at Activate is happy to help out. And next time you design a website, keep these ideas in mind so you can build traffic, keep visitors coming back and boost those conversions.

Posted in Website Design, Web Design Trends, Marketing

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