subject: Recognising And Avoiding The Top Three Website Design Mistakes [print this page] Chances are, you can think of dozens of websites that stand out in your mind because you never want to visit them again. Unfortunately, when it comes to creating your own website, you may make the exact same mistakes without even realizing it. At the very least, you should avoid the three most common web design pitfalls as much as possible.
Legibility and Site Content Issues
Almost every guide dedicated to building successful websites will tell you to add as much text based content as possible. Many website designers seem to think that also means making the fonts as small as possible. In a sense, when you use the wrong sized font, it is every bit as irritating as using all caps or using fonts that are too large. Since many people also use laptops and netbooks to view websites, you will be best served by using a font that is the same size as Times New Roman 12.
It is also very important to realize that pages and pages of verbiage will not be as successful as one or two pages filled with direct, interesting information. Oddly enough, a number of website design courses often recommend creating sales pitches that extend across 4 - 5 pages. Rather than have site viewers get tired of scrolling, you will be well served by keeping all pages on the site under 750 words.
Loading Time, Advanced Technologies, and Popups
There are few things worse than visiting a website that takes several minutes to load. Rather than have this problem develop, it is better to create a simple, fast loading text page, and then offer a link to the more complicated site. In a similar way, people that are looking for information are not likely to appreciate popups, tracking cookies, malware, or other items that invade their privacy. As a general rule of thumb, you will be better served by using newsletter campaigns and future contacts when it comes to making hard sales pitches.
Many people believe that a website must have a good "feel" to it. Under those circumstances, you may overlook some of the most common problems that lead to viewer discomfort. As a general rule of thumb, if you avoid using the wrong fonts, and develop sites that load fast and contain a minimal amount of advertisement, your site will have a better chance of succeeding.
Notes for editors: Claire Jarrett recommends Warren Phillips Web Design, who specialise in web design Manchesterpackages
