Website
design is considered both a science and an art. This term is typically used to
define the whole process involved in developing and designing a website by
using several different tools and methods. Web design is not only what we see,
but also represents the user interface, menu structure and overall layout of
the website. This is done with the help of different images, typeface, colours
and contrasts. A well designed website not only performs well on a visual and
user experience level, it also has a genuine impact on the volume of online company
sales generated.
Importance of web design
In
order to promote your business well, and to get in front of your competitors, you
have to visually engage and delight your web traffic visitors. Your website creates
an initial and lasting impression of your business, so it’s crucial that its
quality reflects the professionalism of your company. Consumers and potential
clients need to identify with your brand - who you are, what you offer and why
they should believe that your product or service is superior to others.
Types of Web Design
There
are many types of web design available, and what you choose depends on the
purpose for creating it;
Static
– A Static website is one which does not have either a database or
interactive content and no any server side functionality. This type of design
is used for smaller websites that do not require any complicated functions or
features. The static design is cheaper, faster, and simpler to design as
compared to other designs.
Dynamic
– Dynamic websites use server-side programming and database to stock
and distribute the content. This kind of website enables web pages to carry out
complicated functions along with displaying complicated data and collaborative
content. Dynamic designs are appropriate for larger websites which require a
large number of pages. However, this type of design needs more initial work as
compared to static websites, therefore it’s typically not recommended for small
websites.
Brochure
Sites –best for small businesses and for those who
are looking for a low budget option. These websites generally have one or two
pages, following a basic format, including pages such as Home page, About Us,
Services, Contact Us and links.
Content
Management System (CMS) – CMS is the best options for those
who update their services and products frequently. Even, this is also very
effective for those who want complete control over their website. This allows
you to add image, page, or content depending on your needs.
E-commerce
- E-commerce websites are preeminent for those who want to sell
goods online. You can get e-commerce design according to your business needs by
adding payment gateways like PayPal, SagePay, WorldPay, or Checkout by Amazon.
E-commerce websites are database driven and dynamic that provides provision to
clients to add product descriptions, images, new items and stock levels from a
committed admin system.
How to Increase Conversion rates
The theme, color, menu navigation, layout,
graphics, usability and images all play a crucial role in persuading visitors
to browse through a website, thereby helping to convert them into buyers. A
successful website is one that provides an intuitive user experience – that is
to say, one where specific words are made into clickable links that lead the
user to where they would expect to go, having seen a particular product or
image.
Here are a few influential ways to help increase
conversion rates;
- Speed - A crucial factor. If a website takes too long to load, you can very quickly lose your hard earned traffic to competitor websites whose load times are significantly quicker. Use GTMetrix.com to check for site speed issues.
- Readability of the content - The content you create should be easy to read, meaningful, and unique.
- Information hierarchy – Key information that you want web visitors to read should be placed at the top of the page. Organise your content as per your business goals.
- A website is the main means of communication between you and your customers. Imagine turning up in gym gear to a corporate board meeting – it’s not what would be expected. Don’t let clickable key words or phrases lead to a page that does not naturally follow on from what they have just read or seen – it will not help to engender trust, and will diminish the user experience.
- Directional Cues- These are hints via use of hyperlinks, or suggestions such as “If you like this product you may also like…”. These help shepherd user behavior towards specific goals, such as completing a form or making a purchase.
If you want to enhance the appearance,
professionalism or intuitive feel of your website, it is important to
understand the basics of webpage design. At FiveRivers, we ensure to embed all these elements via
our web
design services. We can accompany this with unique
and fresh content for a fully customised digital
marketing strategy.
Request a quote or a free consultation today,
by calling 0203 397 7545.