At a minimum, novice web designers need to familiarize themselves with the fundamentals of website creation in order to develop websites that are both appealing and effective. There are many resources out there to help a new web designer begin; this article is one of them. Here are some smart tips to design better websites.
When you design a web page, always choose the graphics that are appropriate for your purposes. Keep in mind how big a bitmap image is, but using PNG images work better. For simple images, GIF is fine, though. When using photos, make them JPEGs.
It is important to make use of forums and other information avenues to keep up with new ideas in website design. You can also do a quick search online to find any information you seek on the web, and it is free.
When designing a large site, always incorporate a search feature. People have become accustomed to search boxes being in the upper-right corner of the page, so put it there. These should let you at least search for one term, but it’s better if it allows multiple terms. FreeFind and Google can help you install a search function on your website.
Test your site early on and often. It is essential to do usability tests early in the developing phase. That will allow you to make necessary design changes during the build process.
You don’t have to use every inch of space when you design a website. If you are using every single available pixel, the website may feel extremely cluttered. If you allow enough space between different elements on each page, the overall effect will be more relaxed and professional-looking. It can actually work to your benefit if you allow some space to be left uninhabited.
Website Development
There are many newsletters available that distribute both proven and novel website design information. Sign for some of them to keep yourself inspired and give yourself a website development “safety net” you can rely on to maintain your base of knowledge on the subject. Whether designers are well-versed in website development or just getting started, they are likely to find helpful information.
There are many good books which can help you learn more about web page design. Be sure you begin with information that is targeted to your current design level; you want to improve your skills, but you want to make sure you don’t miss any information as you go.
Use a small amount of content when you first set your website up. Too much stuff might overwhelm a visitor and cause great confusion when they try to navigate through your website.
One of the easiest ways to create additional web pages in the same category is the copy/paste function. When you can re-use pre-existing code with only a few minor tweaks in each different page, generating all-new HTML code over and over is a waste of time. You can utilize the master copy continuously.
Think things over very carefully before adding Flash content to your website. Flash can look, well, flashy, but Flash can also be very slow, especially on older computers. Furthermore, some mobile phones and tablet computers do not even support flash, so many users will not even be able to access your website.
Seek out offbeat inspiration as you design your own site. You can also get ideas from other sources such as magazines and TV. Look for unique ideas so your visitors will like your website.
Create and install a website icon on your page. This simple icon will help visitors distinguish your site from others should they add it to their bookmarks. A favicon that is easy to remember will cause your page to jump out from a page full of bookmarks. Pick a favicon that matches your theme.
Always allow for feedback from visitors about your web design. What you find helpful and attractive as the web designer, others might find irrelevant and difficult to navigate. If possible, get some members of your target market to test your site and give you feedback on what they like and what they don’t.
You must put some effort into your website’ logo, because the logo carries out an important function. Your logo needs to be unique and clearly express what it is that you do. If you need help designing a good logo, consult a professional.
Always afford your visitors the option of easily sharing your content, information and products through social sites. You will gain valuable visitors to your site, as well as increased awareness of what you have to offer.
Make sure that all of your site’s links work. Good website development always keeps the user in mind, and broken links are frustrating to users. Schedule regular inspections of your links, and repair the broken ones.
Social media sites are hot right now. Therefore, you need to add tools that enable people to share from your site. This will increase the amount of people interested in your site. Sharing makes your site reach limitless and helps spread the word rapidly.
When doing a final check on your website, be sure you have included all certifications and licenses that need to be displayed and can help the authenticity of your business. This may also include graphics or links to the applicable BBB site to build a trust with consumers and visitors.
Basic techniques, as previously mentioned, are essential for web page design novices to learn if they ever hope to design useful, well-thought out sites. Since a vast amount of information is available on the subject, it can be hard for beginners to identify the best place to start. The article you’ve just read should be a good starting point for understanding the general rules of good website design.