8 Website Design Mistakes to Avoid When Building or Revamping Your Site

Introduction

Website design is essential for any business that wants to succeed online.  A well-designed website is easy to navigate, visually appealing, and informative.  However, there are many common website design mistakes that can undermine your website's effectiveness.

In this article, we will discuss eight common website design mistakes to avoid when building or revamping your site.  By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a website that is both visually appealing and user-friendly, and that effectively communicates your business message.

Mistake No.  1: Not prioritising accessibility

Accessibility is the practice of designing websites and other digital content so that they can be used by everyone, regardless of their abilities.  When designing your website, it is important to consider the needs of users with disabilities, such as those who are blind, deaf, or have mobility impairments.

Some common accessibility mistakes include:

• Not providing alternative text for images
• Using low-contrast text colours
• Not providing keyboard shortcuts for navigating the website
• Using inaccessible technologies

Mistake No.  2: Forgetting the importance of responsive design

Responsive design is a web design approach that ensures that your website looks good and functions well on all devices, including desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smart phones.

In today's mobile-first world, it is essential to have a responsive website.  If your website is not mobile-friendly, you risk losing a significant portion of your potential audience.

Mistake No.  3: Compromising user experience for aesthetics

It is important to remember that the primary purpose of your website is to provide a positive user experience.  While a visually appealing website is important, it should not come at the expense of user-friendliness.

Some common mistakes that can compromise user experience include:

• Using too much animation
• Using cluttered and confusing layouts
• Using difficult-to-read fonts
• Making users scroll excessively

Mistake No.4: Not investing in customisation

A custom website design is one that is tailored to the specific needs of your business.  This can be a significant investment, but it is often worth it in the long run.

A custom website can help you to:

• Stand out from your competitors
• Create a more professional image for your business
• Communicate your business message more effectively

Mistake No.  5: Using features that don't convert

When designing your website, it is important to focus on features that will help you achieve your business goals.  This may include features such as contact forms, e-commerce functionality, or lead generation tools.

Avoid using features that are simply decorative or that do not contribute to your overall business goals.

Mistake No.  6: Having a lack of hierarchy

A website hierarchy is a system of organising content on your website so that users can easily find the information they are looking for.

A well-designed website hierarchy will use headings and subheadings to group related content together.  This will make your website easier to navigate and more scannable.

Mistake No.  7: Having unclear navigation

Your website's navigation should be clear and easy to use.  Visitors should be able to quickly and easily find the pages they are looking for.

Some common navigation mistakes include:

• Using too many navigation menus
• Using confusing or ambiguous navigation labels
• Not providing a clear breadcrumb trail

Mistake No.  8: Not effectively communicating your business purpose

When visitors land on your website, they should immediately understand what your business does and what you have to offer.  Your website should clearly communicate your unique value proposition and why customers should choose you over your competitors.

Some common mistakes that can prevent you from effectively communicating your business purpose include:

• Not having a clear and concise homepage
• Using jargon or technical language that your target audience may not understand
• Not highlighting your unique selling proposition (USP)

Conclusion

By avoiding the common website design mistakes discussed in this article, you can create a website that is both visually appealing and user-friendly.  This will help you to attract and retain visitors, and to achieve your business goals.