There are billions of websites online right now. If you want to stand out, you must focus on both design and usability. Web design is where function meets design. Other than website usability, users are looking for pleasing aesthetic. Each target demographic has their own expectations regarding design and function. The key is knowing what those expectations are and acting on them. With that in mind, here are the 8 simple principles of website design and usability to keep your visitors engaged, informed, and, most of all, willing to buy.

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Simple Principles of Website Design

    1. Keep it simple. Sure, the design makes a difference. Slick websites are attractive. However, most people click on site to achieve something, whether it’s to buy something or find some info. Unnecessary visual elements like too many colors, too many different typefaces, and too much graphics will only make it hard for visitors to do what they came there to do. Keep it simple.
    2. Do it top down. Users will probably eventually complete the action you want them to complete. But instead of leaving it up to chance, lead the users to the desired action by placing the most important elements first and lead them down to the action you expect them to perform.
    3. Be consistent. Consistency is the simplest principle; but also the most difficult to sustain. Nevertheless, it’s very important to have a consistent look, feel, and tone across all the pages of the site.
    4. Try the tried and tested. While it’s tempting to go wild and different to stand out, some conventions must be kept if you want to resonate with your users. For instance, logos and navigation bars are usually found on the top of the page, the shopping cart link at the top right, etc. These tried and tested elements will not leave them confused or frustrated.

Simple Principles of Website Usability

  1. Make it a no-brainer. Website usability is all about ease-of-use. Essentially, make it as easy as possible for your users to get from one page or action to another without having to exert too much effort. To do this, ensure that the structure, navigation links, and other elements are clear and easy to find, and simple.
  2. Accessibility. There are more people using smartphones and tablets than actual computers now. Therefore, your website must be accessible on all kinds of devices to ensure a seamless user experience across all kinds of devices and platforms.
  3. Facilitate engagement. Online media is interaction central, or at least, it should be. Encourage your users to engage with you by making it easy and straightforward to click, scroll, login, comment, contact you, etc.
  4. Be user-obsessed. More and more web design agencies in Sydney are transitioning from being user-centric to user-obsessed. How is this done? Think like your customer. Walk in their shoes and if possible, ask them about their experience. And then design all the visual and usability elements around their needs and expectations.