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A Guide to Web Site Design

One of the most important components of a website is effective, integrated design. In order to be visually appealing to visitors, websites should possess attractive layouts and seamless movement from one page to the next. Through efficient web site design, companies are able to improve customer experience and increase the likelihood of repeat visits.

Elements of Web Site Design

An effective web site design comprises of more than just placing content, images and links in a layout. In order to design a truly effective website, web designers should understand the following elements:

Audience:
Understanding the target audience of a company’s website can provide insight into how to structure web site design. If the company’s audience is comprised of young individuals that have experience with technology, then a website with Flash animation and interactive multimedia is most likely to engage them. However, if the audience wants to be directed straight to the service, then designers should utilize a simplistic web design.

Simplicity:
When users visit a website, they want to access information as quickly and easily as possible. In order to facilitate this need, web designers should create web pages that move seamlessly from one to the other. With obvious cues and easy navigation, web designers can create a clean web site design that simplifies user experience. 

Content Exposure:
Web site design is more than just filling web pages with images and videos. Designers should employ a design that effectively displays content throughout the site, and conveys information about the company. In addition, if the company has information that can be downloaded, such as white papers, seminars or case studies, then these resources should be easily accessible to the visitor.

Navigation:
User experience is diminished when visitors explore sites that are hard to navigate or contain web pages that are populated with poorly organized content and links. When creating a website, navigation is one of the most important factors that designers should keep in mind. By designing a website that allows visitors to move effortlessly from one page to another, it increases the chances that they visit the site again.

Where to Purchase Web Site Design

For companies that cannot invest the time or resources in creating a website, there are a number of different parties that offer quality web site design service.

Freelancers:
Many freelancers who are skilled in web design offer their services to customers. Some of the benefits of employing freelancers include flexibility and their ability to customize their work to your needs. The best ways to find qualified reputable freelancers is through referrals, or by examining their past work.

Firms and Companies:
Larger agencies such as web design firms and companies offer their services to a wide range of businesses. The benefit of employing web design companies is that they tend to be more reputable; however, their services may be more expensive.

Design Software:
For businesses that are strapped for money, web site design software can help users create a web site.  However, one disadvantage is that the effectiveness of the program is limited by the knowledge of the user. If the customer lacks graphic design or programming knowledge, then he or she may only be able to create the most basic website.