subject: Simple Web Design Mistakes: Tips to Avoid Ugly Websites [print this page] Almost anyone can learn to do some web design; however, not everyone is skilled at it. A lot of people learn a bit of web design to use on their own sites or to make a little extra money; however, many times, they don't really learn enough to be competent. There are a number of amateur web design errors that you should avoid.
Large Blocks of Text
Be sure to chunk your text. Most people do not like to sit at the computer and read massive paragraphs. Organize your text into short paragraphs that are easy to digest quickly. Use headlines, bullet points, and short paragraphs to make your visitors' reading experience more enjoyable and stress-free.
Music
A big blast from the past is music that starts blaring while a site is loading. This was popular in the 1990s, but it is pass now. Lots of times, people are at work, watching television, or listening to music of their own choosing while surfing the net, so they don't want to have to listen to some "un-chosen" music while waiting for your page to open.
Animation
If you want your website to look like it was created in the 1990s, be sure to add some Blinking Text and Animations! Animation is lots of fun, and when you are first starting out, you may tend to go overboard. Beware! This can make your website look very amateur. Also, users may leave your site if you have a bunch of bothersome animated ads.
Small Font Size
Don't use minuscule fonts or colored fonts. These may look very artistic, but if your visitor can't read them, they won't do you any good. If your site is not readable, your potential user will just leave. Be sure your colored fonts can be read easily. Don't use dark font on a dark background or light font on a light background.
New Browser Windows
Don't have every page on your site opening in a new browser window. This is unnecessary and annoying. Nobody needs 10 windows open while browsing a website. Just use new browser windows for links that take your user away to another site.
Doorway Pages
Remember that Doorway Pages are associated with unscrupulous SEO tactics (i.e. Black Hat SEO). They are also used by people who are showing off how well they can design a Flash page. Either way, for a professional site, they should be avoided. A doorway passage is just an added step. It's just one more thing for the user to click on. By and large, avoid doorway pages.
Unmarked PDF Files
Surprise PDF files are a real turn-off. It is great to have PDF files. They are a fabulous resource, but nobody likes to be surprised by them. They should be clearly identified. Many computers have a hard time handling PDF files. Some even freeze up, so it is important to let people know they are about to open a PDF file.
Hard to Decipher CAPTCHA
Under no circumstance, include unreadable "CAPTCHA's". Of course, "CAPTCHA's" are a necessary component of spam intervention; however, some of them are impossible for real humans to read. Most users are extremely frustrated and annoyed by "CAPTCHA's".
If you want to avoid having an ugly website, these are some of the glaring design mistakes you should avoid. It is also helpful to get a second opinion from a professional designer to polish your website.
Simple Web Design Mistakes: Tips to Avoid Ugly Websites
