As any designer will tell you, web design is much more than simply how your site looks. More importantly, it’s how your site feels. That means not just the level of interactivity and speed that your site has, but also the emotional content, which can include font choices, text size, videos, and the actual written content itself. Let’s break it down quickly in terms of Form vs. Function:
Form:
At a barebones level, the skeleton or schematic of the website itself, particularly the main page. As the most viewed page, it is also the most important - think of it like the display window in a store. Everyone who sees it, even if they don’t become a customer, will form an impression of your business in a split-second. That’s why loading speed of your site is a huge factor - not only does it improve your search ranking, but people simply won’t stay on your page if it takes too long to load.
Even seconds can make a difference. The good news is if they like the main page, they’re likely to check out the rest. Some helpful tips to keep in mind:
Think about what the customer wants, but don’t lose sight of what you want - promote your sales and special deals and give them incentives to sign up for your newsletter.
Images are powerful. Use clear, large sizes wherever possible.
The main page is not the place for too much text. If they want more info from you, they’ll look for it elsewhere on the site.
Keep it dynamic but not too busy. Animations, pop-ups, etc. can hook people in when used sparingly, but too much movement and the site will look crowded or even desperate.
Shorter is better - but not too short. Don’t omit important information but don’t be exhaustive, either.
Change it up. Have at least one piece of information on the main page that changes every week or so, such as a blog or Instagram feed. People will come back if you give them a reason to come back.
Function:
On a basic level, you are looking for engagement. Add surveys, newsletter forms, mailing lists as much as possible. The more information you have about your customers, the more easily you can sell to them in specific ways.
Keep your contact info visible. People will look for information like location or phone number if they are looking to buy from you so make sure it’s visible ideally on every page. Also keep a dedicated Contact page with all the ways you like to keep in touch.
If you are using a product grid, add promotions, discounts, sales, etc. as much as possible to keep it looking dynamic and fresh.
Adding Push notifications means that customers who aren’t even on your page will see your updates. Don’t make them frivolous, either - only use them when you have a big promotion or update so they don’t get tired of them.
Optimize for mobile devices. Most people are using their phones more than their desktops to search and buy. DG1 already does most of the hard work, but always check the mobile version of your site to make sure your design ideas are coming across as you want them to be.
Editing web pages in the Web CMS editor is very user-friendly and easy for anyone regardless of skill level. If you can drag and drop, you can create a beautiful, functional website for your customers in no time at all. You’ll soon find it’s easy to create exactly the kind of site you want to visit yourself.
Read more about the Web CMS features here:
https://dg1.com/features/web-cms
Tags: web design, graphic design, web sites, forms, customers, newsletters, engagement, design tips, help, customers, display, speed, loading speed, efficiency, sales
