Five web design myths debunked
We hear a lot about the importance of good web design, but what does that really mean? Just because you like the way a particular thing looks, does that make it good design? Below we have outlined five web design myths that might trip you up if you don’t know the truth.
Myth: Like a good print ad, good web design must be eye-catching.
Truth: Print ad design and website design are different. They have different purposes, obstacles, and goals.
In print, every ad is in competition with every other ad and story for the reader’s attention. Typically the reader isn’t looking for ads. More likely they’re there for news. This means that your ad has to grab their attention. It has to pull their eyes off the news and over to your ad. To achieve this, your may use bright colors, large images, or a large font.
On the other hand, when a prospect lands on a website, it is probably because the site offers something they’re interested in. Don’t make the struggle to find the right information or skirt around moving objects. If they feel frustrated trying to navigate your website, they may assume that doing business with you will be equally frustrating. Rather, present information in a clear and simple way. This will make it easier form them to find what they need.
Even thought the web design myth exists that a site must be eye-catching, the truth is that the primary goal of web design is to make the design easy to read. There will also be times when a visitor stumbles upon your site by accident. No amount of flashing lights or bright colors will to convince them to stay.
Myth: Reverse type is always good.
Truth: Light text on a dark background is harder to read than dark text on a light background.
You see it all the time—light text on a dark background. Reverse type can give variety to a page layout, but as a general rule, it is harder to read, particularly in large blocks. One of the most important aspects of a good website is readability. Reverse type, we know, makes reading more difficult. For that reason, we recommend using dark type on a light background for most situations. Read more about how color and contrast affect readability.
The myth is that reverse type in web design is always good. The truth is that light text on a dark background is harder to read. And since readability is our priority, reverse text should only be used sparingly.
Myth: The design must be bold.
Truth: The design is not what you want to be noticed.
When someone visits your website, you want them to get the feeling that these people are really good at what they do. If your website is busy, takes a long time to load, or isn’t mobile-friendly, that can reflect poorly on the user’s opinion of your company. The purpose of the site layout should be to present the most important information in a clear and understandable way. The goal is not to have the visitor say, “Wow, what a cool web design.” Rather, we’d prefer that they say, “Your website is so easy to use and understand. It saves me time.”
The myth is that web design must be bold. The truth is that the content of the page should be readable, so the design should support the content.
Myth: Good design is the most important thing.
Truth: Content is king.
I am a designer, so for me the design is the most fun part of my job. However, I know that good design will not drive traffic to a website. Good design will not convince anyone to do business with you or to stay on your site long enough to learn if you have what they need. The single most important element of any website is the content it contains.
Visitors come to your website looking for information. To be successful in converting site visitors to customers, you’ll need to provide them with the information they need to make that decision. Have you provided answers to the most frequently asked questions? Have you offered an easy way to contact you? Develop good content, and good design will enhance its efficacy.
The myth is that good web design is the most important thing. The truth is that content is the single most important factor of any website.
Myth: White space is wasted space.
Truth: White space is a necessary element.
White space makes for a clean and simple look. It allows your message and your calls to action to stand out. White space makes buttons easier to find and click, and it brings more attention to your images.
The myth is that white space in website design is wasted. The truth is that white space makes text more readable.
Have you fallen for any website design myths?
If you have any questions about the myths we’ve addressed here or if you have any other questions, give us a call at (518) 392-0846 or email [email protected]. And if you’re interested in learning more about all our services, visit our WordPress website design and development services page.
You have a typo under the “truth” section f reverse type. You have “that” and you meant to have “than”
Good catch, thanks Mark!