11 Essential Website Design Tips for Increased Visitor Retention

Jan 2
14:30

2024

Joe Gracia

Joe Gracia

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In the digital age, a well-designed website is crucial for maintaining visitor engagement and encouraging repeat visits. This article provides 11 essential tips for designing a website that not only attracts visitors but also keeps them coming back for more.

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1. Embrace Simplicity

While Java and Shockwave animations may seem appealing,11 Essential Website Design Tips for Increased Visitor Retention Articles they often do more harm than good. They can distract visitors from your core message and may even cause their computers to crash. Many visitors may not have the necessary plug-ins to view these animations. Until internet technology advances to make these animations more accessible, it's best to keep your website design simple and focus on your marketing strategy and content.

2. Prioritize Readability

If content is king, then readability is queen. Avoid using dark or patterned backgrounds, as they can make your text difficult to read. Stick to black or dark text on plain white backgrounds. Avoid fancy fonts, as not all visitors will have the same fonts on their computers. Stick to basic fonts like Times Roman, Helvetica, or Arial. Use ALL CAPS sparingly and maintain a consistent format for your fonts.

3. Keep Line Lengths Short

Shorter lines of text are easier for people to read and absorb. Aim to keep your line lengths no more than 85 characters long.

4. Keep Paragraphs Short

Long blocks of text can be off-putting to visitors. Keep your paragraphs to 5-6 lines each. The shorter, the better.

5. Use Sub-Heads and Bulleted Lists

Breaking up your paragraphs with bold sub-heads and bulleted lists can make your content more appealing and easier to digest.

6. Optimize Page Load Speed

Visitors won't wait forever for your page to load. Keep your graphics small and use them sparingly. Aim to keep your page load time under 20 seconds.

7. Provide Clear Instructions

Not all web users are tech-savvy. Make your links obvious by using blue, underlined text, and don't hesitate to tell your visitors exactly what you want them to do.

8. Design for a 600 Pixel Width

A webpage wider than 600 pixels may require visitors to scroll horizontally, which can be frustrating. Designing your pages for a 600 pixel width can help avoid this issue.

9. Design for 800 Resolution

While higher resolutions may look great on your computer, many visitors won't have their monitors set to these resolutions. Design your site for 800 resolution to ensure it's easily readable for the majority of your visitors.

10. Organize Your Website

A well-organized website makes it easier for visitors to navigate and find what they're looking for. Break down your information into logical sections or departments and consider adding a site map page.

11. Maintain Consistency Across Web Pages

Establish a simple and consistent format for your web pages. Consistency in layout, fonts, and graphics can enhance the professional look of your site and build trust with your visitors.

By implementing these tips, you can create a website that not only attracts visitors but also encourages them to stay longer and return more often.