The Difference Between Good & Bad Website Design
Exploring the Difference Between the Good, Bad, and Amazing Website Designs
Think back to the first time you stumbled upon your favorite website. What was it about that site that captured your attention and made you fall in love? Was it the gorgeous fonts, stunning images, or maybe the clever layout and interactive features?
Whatever it was, that website left a lasting impression on you, and chances are, you’ve revisited it multiple times since then.
So, what sets apart these exceptional websites from the vast sea of 1.5 billion websites out there? That's exactly what we're diving into today.
The website you’re thinking of likely doesn’t just have good design—it has elements of great design. As you embark on planning your own website, it’s beneficial to consider what elevates a website from good to great.
Clear User Journey
A great website prioritizes user experience above all else. While a visually appealing site is nice, it must also function seamlessly. Try navigating your website as a first-time visitor to ensure a smooth user experience. Additionally, seek feedback from others who haven’t visited your site before to optimize your user journey. As a website designer, not only do I always have a nondesigner test run every site I create but I also try out the website on different screen sizes. A website layout that may be easy to navigate on a laptop may look totally confusing on a small cellphone screen.
Bold Visuals and Imagery
Ever been awestruck by a website’s visuals? That jaw-dropping effect often stems from captivating imagery. Consider your favorite websites—chances are, their visual appeal played a significant role in your admiration. Incorporating hero images (those large, attention-grabbing photos right under the website header) can draw visitors deeper into your site. Taking lots of pictures or even hiring a photographer will help your chances of getting those shots that create that wow moment for your website.
Consistent Visual Branding
Beyond logos, cohesive visual branding includes color palettes, typography, and patterns. Consistency across your website’s pages ensures a seamless brand experience for visitors. As a web designer, I want to make sure that every page of a website doesn’t leave the visitor feeling as if they are being taken to a different company website with every button click.
Well-Written Copy
Compelling copy complements great design by guiding visitors through your website. Copy is basically everything typed up on a website. A website might look fantastic, but if the content doesn’t make sense or match the site's vibe, visitors might leave. Some business owners prefer to write their own content, others let their website designer handle it, and some hire a professional copywriter. It all depends on your preference and budget!
Ample White Space/Breathing Room
Avoid overcrowding design elements by incorporating sufficient white space. This breathing room enhances readability and overall aesthetics, creating a pleasant browsing experience.
Optimized for SEO
SEO (search engine optimization) is crucial for visibility on search engines like Google. Strategic SEO practices ensure your website ranks well, driving organic traffic and potential clients to your site.
Optimized User Experience Across Devices
With mobile browsing on the rise, ensure your website is optimized for both desktop and mobile devices. Many business owners try to save money by not hiring a website designer and instead buy website templates that look great on their computer, only to find they turn into a jumbled mess on their phone after they make changes. A seamless user experience across platforms is key to engaging visitors.
Now that you can distinguish good design from great design, think about your favorite websites and what makes them stand out to you. What design elements do you still love? I’d love to hear what websites excite you to get your very own!
