Top 5 Web Design Blunders to Avoid

1. Overuse of Graphics

Excessive use of graphics, especially large ones, can cause your site to load slowly. This can lead to visitor impatience and potentially result in them leaving your site, never to return.

Solution: Whenever possible, save your graphics as GIF files rather than JPEGs. Also, try to reduce the actual size of your graphics as much as possible without distorting the image.

2. Unnecessary Counters

Unless your site receives a significant amount of traffic, a visitor or hit counter should not be visible on your site. Visitors generally don't care about their visitor number, and there's no benefit to them or to you.

Solution: Many web hosts offer web statistics that provide information on daily visitors, hits, referrers, etc. This feature allows you to track how many people are visiting your site without publicly displaying the information. If you're just starting out, ensure your web host offers this service for free.

3. Excessive Banners

Limit your banners to the bare minimum. Banners are graphics that can slow down loading time and are often avoided by internet users who view them as ads.

Solution: If you do have a banner or two, place them at the top or bottom of your page, or in your sidebar. Ensure that any banners on your site are related to your product or service. Everything on your site should work together to benefit your target customer.

4. Disorganized Website

Ensure your site has a clear pattern that guides your visitor. Observing how people navigate your site can provide valuable insights into how to better organize it.

Solution: Design your site in a way that guides the visitor. Avoid placing graphics or banners that could distract the visitor from reaching your sales page. You only have one chance to grab the visitor's attention, so make the most of it.

5. Lack of Personalization

The most effective way to sell on the internet is to personalize your website to reach your target audience. Many websites try to appeal to everyone, but the reality is that you can't be everything to everyone.

Solution: Make your site as personal as possible. Write as if you are face-to-face with the customer. Present your website in a way that makes the visitor feel like they've just walked into a local store. Stay focused on your target customer.

Avoiding these five common web design mistakes can significantly increase the effectiveness and success of your web business. Design your site to sell!