Usability and functionality are very crucial issues in web design whether you are a newbie venturing into the online business world or a webmaster seeking to establish and solidify your online presence. It is thus imperative for every webmaster to ensure that their site whether personally designed or designed by a professional designer complies with the usability codes. Here are some of the issues and checkpoints you need to be on the lookout for concerning your site’s usability.
First impression is obviously the most important thing and it generally refers to the image created on your potential customer’s mind on glancing at your website. The online marketing world refers to first impressions using the three second rule which states that a customer makes judgment regarding your website in three seconds after logging onto your site. It has been established that the top left corner is the first thing that catches the eye of the viewer so you should seek to put your corporate logo and important content here.
Navigation is an important aspect of usability and also one of the determinants of whether a visitor stays on your site or not. It is important for navigation on your site to be simple, consistent and universal in order for visitors to find the information they are looking for with relative ease. You can use text links and site maps as well as navigation supporting tools such as ‘previous’ and ‘next’ buttons or related links. It is also important to display your contact information through for example a contact page in order for your potential clients to know how to find you. Also, have a clear and obvious objective for your visitors on the site for example purchasing products.
Content is another issue that dictates the usability of a site. The quality and presentation of content are important factors in attracting visitors to your site. Content should be quality and concise and it should seek to answer all the potential client’s questions. It should be organized in a flowing manner and relayed as effectively as possible. Make sure you provide as thorough information as possible regarding what your business or website is offering. It is also vital to keep your information up to date. The layout of the content should also be presentable enough to make the customer want to read it. The branding and layout should also show some form of consistency. Above all, the site design should not interfere with the delivery of the content.
The appearance of the site also matters a great deal. When visitors log on to your site, they usually have the solitary goal of finding what they are looking for. You can make this easier for them by avoiding flash and animation that compete for their attention. You also need to ensure that the site free of errors such as broken links, images, spelling and browser inconsistencies in order to retain your client’s confidence. Lastly, try to assure your clients of security by having well defined privacy policies, shipping and return policies and protection of disclosed private information.
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