Paragraphs That Are Long Readers on the Internet have short spans of attention, so it is very hard to read chunks of text in length when they are sitting at a computer. Websites should try to make reading more enjoyable by using brief paragraphs, bullet points, and headlines. Music on Websites This trend was popular in the mid-90′s, however now it is looked down on as unprofessional when a site starts with music blaring and there isn’t a way to stop it. Individuals typically skim the Internet at work, while viewing television, or listening to their own music, so it can be very frustrating to have music playing when the page loads.
Blinking Animations and Text These are things that were used a great deal in the 90′s. While new web designers may enjoy showing off their animation skills, it often makes websites look amateur. Also, advertisements that are very animated may distract users and cause them to exit the site. Tiny and Colored Fonts While tiny fonts occasionally show up nicely on the screen, not everyone has good enough eyes to read them. If the site is not user-friendly, they will simply leave and go elsewhere.
New Browser Windows It is very annoying for the user that each page on the site opens a browser window that is new. When people look at the website, they don’t want to see ten tabs open. Accordingly, use a new window only if the user will be redirected to an external site. Doorway Pages Doorway pages are occasionally utilized by unethical SEO tactics called blackhat SEO, or by individuals who want to display their Flash design abilities. Sadly, doorway pages won’t add any additional value to the user; it just makes it more difficult to get to the actual site. Doorway pages should not be used in many situations.
Hidden PDF Files PDF files can improve a website by helping to market it, but there should be text alerting the user to their location. Tell the user if there is a PDF file, prior to them learning about it by clicking on it, as they often can freeze computer screens. Unclear CAPTCHA’s It is necessary to have CAPTCHA’s at this time to stop spam, but sometimes it does not look clear enough for the average person to see. Don’t use CAPTCHA’s that will confuse the typical user.
You can create an attractive website if you avoid these design mistakes and ask professionals for their feedback.
Stephen Grisham, Sr. is a professional writer for InfoServe Media, LLC. If you are looking for web design in Houston, or if you just need a few changes to an existing site, InfoServe Media also offers website maintenance.
Tags: business, Design, internet, Internet Business, web design