The Ideal Web Page Layout
The internet is a vast, gigantic space of strange and mysterious websites each with varying layouts, themes and designs. But how do you know what actually works? What IS the perfect template?
Surely there must be some elements that you can mix together to cook up the perfect page?
Well of course there are.
When considering the layout of your new website or a landing page adhere to these points and you’ll be halfway there to an enviable webpage.
1. Keep it clean
Avoid clutter at all costs.
You have to be brutal when it comes to deciding what needs to be included on a page.
Do you really need to ask people to sign up to your newsletter on every page? If someone doesn’t sign up the first time, they probably won’t sign up the 2nd, 3rd and 4th time they’re asked.
Aim for a clean page with a clear focus.
2. A balanced layout
A place for everything and everything in its place.
Everything on the page needs to have a home. That home needs to be as consistent as possible across all pages. From a usability perspective this makes content more accessible and easier to find.
Consistency makes for a smarter and visually appealing site.
3. Attention to detail
Edit that page like you would your CV.
Your page is representing and selling your business so make sure every bit of it impresses. No spelling mistakes, no grammatical errors and no broken links.
Make sure your font isn’t too small and that you are using a variety of heading sizes.
4. Space, glorious space
Don’t be afraid of the white space.
This will create emphasis on the areas that are populated and the main content of the page.
5. Use modern design elements and features
Stay on trend.
Keep your website up to date by following and replicating the latest design trends but don’t try to be too innovative or quirky as you may end up compromising on functionality and usability.
Features such as a parallax image on your homepage illustrated in the image below can create an impact on visitors.
6. Everything revolves around content
It all boils down to your content.
Your content is the main event. It’s all very well having lots of bells and whistles and bits that swoosh around in a pleasurable way but the text contains all of the important stuff. So:
Make sure the main content and key information is made easily accessible and clearly visible and that the design features are relevant to your content and sector
7. Images, diagrams and visual aids
A picture is worth a thousand words.
An awesome image can be the difference between an average website and an awesome website that will really resonate with users.
Try to avoid generic stock photos of weirdly enthusiastic men in suits shaking hands. Look for colourful, bright, high quality images. They don’t have to literally describe the page content; try to think outside the box.
Is there a process within your business or the services that you provide that could be illustrated in an informative diagram or flow chart? Visual aids will also help the user absorb information. A site that is too text heavy can result in an increased bounce rate.
8. Responsiveness
Responsiveness; it’s unavoidable.
A non responsive site will compromise your online presence significantly. Recent updates to Google’s algorhythms earlier this year mean that all non-responsive websites are now penalised in terms of their ranking.
It’s not just making the template fit onto smaller screens it’s about the layout and making it user friendly from all portable devices. Buttons need to be larger. Font needs to be legible.
9. Formation Media – the best of the best with a shed load of IT geeks
Need help with your website? Not sure on a new design that will effectively showcase your business?
Come and have a chat with us and we’ll guide you through the process with a constant flow of tea and biscuits.
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