Are you in the process of creating a new website for your business? Need help deciding which features you should and shouldn’t include?

Orbit Media share their web design standards and best practices in this infographic.

Here are a few items they cover:

• Logo position
• Menu position
• Social media icons
• Call to action
• Video

Check out the infographic for more detail.

 

In today’s digital age, having a well-designed website is essential for any business or organization. A website is not just a platform to showcase products or services; it is a virtual representation of your brand and plays a crucial role in attracting and engaging users.

When it comes to designing a website, adhering to certain standards and incorporating popular features can significantly enhance user experience and overall success. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most widely accepted website design standards and popular features that you need to consider to create an outstanding web presence.

 

Logo in the Top Left

Placing the logo in the top left corner of your website is a fundamental design principle. This placement is not only a convention followed by most websites but also enhances brand recognition and helps users navigate back to the homepage easily.

The logo should be prominently displayed and link back to the homepage, ensuring users always have a quick and straightforward way to return to the starting point of their journey on your website.

 

Main Navigation in the Header

The main navigation menu is a critical element of any website. Placing it in the header, either horizontally across the top or vertically on the side, ensures it remains easily accessible to users at all times.

Keep the navigation menu simple, intuitive, and organized. Use clear and concise labels to help visitors find the information they are looking for quickly.

 

Dropdown Menus

Dropdown menus are a great way to organize and present a large number of navigation options without cluttering the header or sacrificing user experience. When implementing dropdown menus, ensure they are easy to use and mobile-friendly.

Additionally, consider using clear categories and subcategories to guide users efficiently.

 

Contact in the Top Right

Placing the contact information, such as a “Contact Us” link or a phone number, in the top right corner of the website is a standard practice. This location is easily noticeable and provides users with immediate access to get in touch with your business or organization.

It instills trust and conveys that you are readily available for any inquiries or assistance.

 

Value Proposition High on the Page

Capturing visitors’ attention and communicating your value proposition effectively is crucial. Position your value proposition high on the homepage, ideally in the hero section, to make a strong first impression.

Clearly state what makes your brand unique, the benefits you offer, and why users should choose you over your competitors.

 

Search in the Header

A search bar in the header is incredibly useful, especially for websites with extensive content or e-commerce platforms. It allows users to find specific information quickly, reducing the time spent on navigation and improving overall user satisfaction.

Implement an auto-suggest feature to offer relevant search suggestions as users type.

 

Call to Action

An effective call to action (CTA) is essential for guiding users towards the desired actions on your website, such as signing up for a newsletter, making a purchase, or requesting a quote.

Place prominent and visually appealing CTAs strategically throughout your website to encourage user engagement and conversion.

 

Evidence on the Homepage

Showcasing evidence of your success, such as testimonials, reviews, awards, or statistics, on the homepage can significantly boost credibility and trustworthiness.

Positive feedback from previous customers or clients can sway potential customers to choose your products or services with confidence.

 

Video

Videos are a powerful tool for storytelling and conveying complex information in an engaging manner. Incorporating an explainer video or a brand introduction video on your homepage can help visitors understand your offerings better and create a more personal connection with your brand.

 

Social Icons

Social media plays a vital role in modern marketing and brand promotion. Include social media icons in the header or footer of your website, linking to your various social media profiles.

This enables visitors to connect with your brand on different platforms and stay updated with your latest content and announcements.

 

Chat

Live chat support has become increasingly popular in recent years as it allows users to get instant assistance and resolve queries quickly.

Integrating a chat feature on your website can improve customer support and enhance user experience, leading to higher satisfaction levels and increased conversions.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, incorporating these popular website design standards and features can significantly enhance user experience, increase engagement, and improve the overall success of your website. Remember that while these are widely accepted practices, each website is unique, so adapt and customize these features to align with your brand identity and specific goals.

By creating a user-friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and functional website, you can leave a lasting impression on your visitors and foster long-term relationships with your audience.