A Legit Article

Some Ingredients for Happy Visitors

By Marc Carson · Friday October 15, 2010

Want a successful website? Here are some ingredients to consider.

Show, don’t Tell.

The greatest websites are always showing rather than telling.

There are lots of words on the web. Show people what you are talking about to draw them into your website, and they will love you for it.

Design more than you Decorate.

Your website should be designed, not simply decorated. If you are not using principles of design in your website’s layout, you might be turning people away because your website appears amateurish, crowds out important information, or looks like an advertisement.

Decoration is what non-designers usually do. They forget that design is not just making things look pretty: Design is about using visual language to send a consistent, clear message about your brand. Your visitors will pick up on web design cues just like they pick up on non-verbal cues in conversation.

Persuade, don’t Suggest.

You want your website visitors to do something. Are you suggesting rather than persuading? Are you simply “making an option available,” or are you using the entire web experience to persuade them to do what you want them to?

Look at this example:

Just the facts, ma’am
“If you want to learn more about our arts performance schedule in 2010, you can view the calendar or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.”

Vs.

We really think you’ll love it
“Spend a cozy December evening with Peter Pan and Wendy! The clock is ticking…get tickets and information now, or keep on the lookout for more excitement in our e-newsletter!”

Which one is more appealing to you?

If you’re using images, the second example really begs for some great imagery from Peter Pan, making it even more persuasive. The first example begs for some great…calendar imagery? (Yuck.)

You can use writing to convey information. Facts. Figures. But writing is much more powerful when it’s persuasive.

Need a copywriter on your next web project? I know a good one.

Stick a toothpick in it

How does your website measure up? Chances are, some of these tips will help you stand out from the crowd.

If you’re looking for a web designer in Ukiah , or even just a classy web designer in general (wink!)…you should get in touch now .