In this article we want to introduce you to the basics of web design and show you how to go about creating a quality website. Today, it’s not enough to just have a nice looking website – a website must be user-friendly, fast and easily accessible on all devices. If you’re looking to build a website from the ground up, or want to improve your existing one, the following tips will help you get started on the right foot.
What is web design and why is it so important?
Web design is not just about the look of a website, it’s also about how the website works. It’s the combination of aesthetics and functionality that creates the overall impression of the site. A well-designed website can attract more visitors, increase the time they stay on the page and increase the likelihood of conversion.
Key aspects of web design include:
- User experience (UX): how easy it is for users to navigate the site, how much interaction they have and how quickly they can get to the information they are looking for.
- Aesthetics: the design should be visually appealing and reflect the brand image.
- Loading speed: If the page is slow, users are likely to leave, which can negatively affect conversion rates.
Basic steps for successful web design
Page layout
Think carefully about the structure of the site – where you will place the menus, how the different sections will be arranged and what the hierarchy of information will be. The site should have clear navigation so that users can quickly find what they are looking for. We recommend using a simple and clear layout with sufficient space between elements.
Choice of colours and typography
The colour combination should be consistent with your brand’s visual identity. Choose no more than three main colours and make sure the text is legible – which means choosing appropriate fonts and font sizes. For text, it’s also important that the contrast is sufficient.
Mobile optimization (responsive design)
Responsive design is a must. Make sure the site looks good and works properly on all screen sizes, from desktops to smartphones.
The most common web design mistakes
Even though the basics of web design are clear, we often encounter mistakes that can negatively affect the user experience:
- Overly complex or cluttered design: less is sometimes more. A clear and minimalist design allows users to better focus on the content.
- Unreadable fonts and inappropriate colour combinations: users should have no problem reading the text on your page. Think about contrast when designing your colour scheme.
- Neglect testing: don’t forget to test your site regularly on different devices and browsers.
How to improve your web design – tips and recommendations
Quality web design is a continuous process that is constantly evolving. We recommend:
- Conduct user tests: test different versions of the site to see what works best. For example, you can test different page layouts or variations of CTA buttons.
- Analyse data: tracking data in Google Analytics gives you information about how users interact with your website.
- Focus on content: content should not only be of high quality but also well structured. Use headings and paragraphs to divide the text into easily digestible sections.
You might be interested in:
- If you’re interested in learning more about Responsive Design, check out our article “Responsive Design: How to make your website look great on all devices”.
- For inspiration on colours and typography, check out our article “Colours and typography in modern web design: What Works”.
Conclusion
Creating a quality website is not a one-time task, but an ongoing process that requires constant optimization. If you need help with web design or wish to consult an expert, contact us – we are here to help you succeed.
