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How to Optimise Your Website – User Interface

Ever wonder how long it takes for someone to decide if they like you? According to a study from Princeton University, it’s just 100 milliseconds. That’s all it takes for people to judge your likeability, trustworthiness competence and aggressiveness. When it comes to websites, that snap judgement is even quicker – just 50 milliseconds (Taylor & Francis). With impressions forming at such a high speed, having a well-designed website is a must to turn organic website traffic into valuable leads.

This is the first of our two-part web design series, with tips to make your website both visually and functionally attractive to its desired audience. In this article, we will dive into the world of web design. We will focus on the area of User Interface (UI). Think of this as the visual flair – like colours and images.

 

Colour Considerations

The first thing people notice when they land on your website? The colours! Using colours effectively can elevate the user experience, boost your brand identity, and guide users effortlessly.

  • Consistency: Stick to a cohesive colour scheme across your site to strengthen your brand and give your website a polished, professional look. Too many colours can overwhelm visitors and make your site feel chaotic.
  • Readability: Ensure that text contrasts well with background colours. Good contrast makes your content easy on the eyes, while poor contrast can drive visitors away.
  • Highlighting: Use colour strategically to highlight important elements. Want users to notice your contact details? Make the button obvious with a contrasting colour to boost engagement.

 

Imaging Considerations

Just like colours, the images you choose can make or break your website’s appeal.

  • Relevance: Use images that align with your brand’s personality. Consistent image themes create a unified feel that reinforces your brand.
  • Quality: High-quality images are key. According to Clutch, 40% of people say images are the top visual element they appreciate on a website. So, choose wisely!
  • Layout: Pay attention to how images are placed. Ensure they look great on both desktop and mobile to keep your site looking sharp and organised.

 

Content Considerations

Content is a big part of a website, but how you present it is just as important.

  • Display: User clear headings, subheadings, and bullet points to break up text and enhance readability. Plenty of white space helps keep things uncluttered and easy to digest.
  • Alignment: Consistent alignment and spacing give your site a clean, professional look. Use varied font sizes and styles on key content to create a visual hierarchy that guides readers to the most important information.

 

A well-designed website is crucial for any business looking to attract and convert visitors. Regular reviews and updates ensure your site meets evolving user expectations and stays ahead of the competition.

Ready to take your website to the next level? Lacewing Media is here to help! Reach out to Kate at kate@lacewingmedia.com to learn how we can help you.

 

 

References:

Willis, J., & Todorov, A. (2006). First impressions: Making up your mind after a 100-ms exposure to a face. Psychological Science, 17(7), 592-598.

https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1467-9280.2006.01750.x

Lindgaard, G., Fernandes, G., Dudek, C., & Brown, J. (2006). Attention web designers: You have 50 milliseconds to make a good first impression! Behaviour & Information Technology, 25(2), 115–126. https://doi.org/10.1080/01449290500330448

Peck, A. (2021). Website Redesign Checklist: 5 Trends to Consider. Web Design.

https://clutch.co/resources/website-redesign-checklist