10 misconceptions to avoid in Web Design

New to Web Design, or wondering why your site is not generating more interest? Here are 10 misconceptions to avoid.

1. I need to put everything I can think of on my homepage because I’m so excited to share all my information and knowledge …and I‘m afraid you won‘t click on any other pages!

Too much content leaves the homepage cluttered, unfocused and can cause frustration. Readers want quick, concise information so use the homepage as an introduction to your product or services Summarize what can be found on the rest of the site and use it to “tease” the reader about “new” products/services or special offers. Your homepage should never look like a bulging, over-stuffed closet!

2. I’m sure I spelled it rite the first thyme…

Typos leave a really bad first impression. Proofread your text carefully. Even our friend, Spell Check, can let us down by not seeing typos such as “there” for “their“, “here” for “hear“, etc.

3. People will understand that I’m an amateur photographer…

Bad photos placed on a website will kill first impressions and sales. Do you have an extraordinary product, amazing vacation destination or cute, cuddly puppies? Blurry, dark, poorly staged photos will hurt sales and your business image. A bad photo is worse than no photo. Technology has enabled the average consumer to purchase reasonably priced digital cameras that produce beautiful photos. Take your time, stage it properly and your efforts will pay off. If a professional photographer is needed, rest assured the cost will often be easily recouped through a professional business image and improved sales.

4. I need a really complex, cool navigation bar to make my site stand out…

Having to “figure out” or learn how to move around your site is cause for quick exits. Titles on the primary navigation bar should be short and descriptive. Highlight with color or graphics for interest. Keep in mind that visitors like familiarity and navigation should be instinctual. Allow visitors to know what page they are on at all times. Make the trip around your site enjoyable through sensible navigation.

5. Once a link, always a link….

Links to quality outside sites are a great way to offer more relevant information. However, links on the internet come and go and should be checked on a regular basis. Broken links lead visitors to believe your site is not current.

6. Since I took the time to put up a website, you trust me right?

Well not exactly. Take the time to explain who you are, list your credentials and why you are an authority in your area. List your contact information in an area that is easy to find. Add testimonials from satisfied clients. Stand by your product or service with guarantees.

7. What‘s the hurry?

Unless you’re a teenager, people have limited time and want information quickly. Organize your website so that information is easy to locate. Use bold text, underlines and different colors to help direct visitors to key locations. Make sure your site loads quickly. Slow sites are painful and a recipe for failure! You have between 4 and 9 seconds to make a positive first impression. Use your time wisely.

8. I feel the need to impress you with all my industry specific terminology…

That might make you feel smart and sound educated, but can anyone really understand you? Speak in terms that the average consumer can understand. Remember, the website was built to educate and please others, not yourself.

9. I didn’t want to spend the time or the money so I found “stuff” on the net to use…

Internet users and consumers are savvy, so that brings us right back to first impressions.
If you and many related websites are using the same graphics, what makes you stand out from the rest? Custom logos and graphics can be made using a simple graphics program or by a professional.

10. My website is finished, it feels so good to be done!

Um.. Hardly! You’ve had your site built, you’ve had it submitted to the search engines but there is still much work to be done. With millions of sites on the internet, just being listed in the search engines is not enough to bring your site satisfactory traffic. Help people find your website by using traditional methods of advertising such as handing out business cards, newspaper ads, TV ads, donations of product or services to local non-profit organizations, business/holiday fairs, etc. Spend time placing your website in online directories suited to your products or services. Advertise on websites that have like content and high traffic. Having a website is only one part of a “marketing plan”.

Websites should be constantly evolving. Fresh content is the only way to keep visitors coming back on a regular basis. Frequent visits build consumer confidence and trust which in turn will benefit your bottom line!

About the Author

Linda Chadbourne, an experienced web designer since 1998 with a specialty creating websites that are functional works of art and working with novice web design clientele.

www.maine-lyweb.com

copyright 2006. This article may be reprinted freely as long as all links remain active.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Linda_Chadbourne

FASHION TIPS FOR WOMEN

Sharpen your fashion skills with these practical tips to make your clothes work for you. The styles you choose will concern your appearance and how you're perceived.
Every woman has flaws. These ideas are for those that accept them, but wish to minimize them. Don't forget, stand up straight, have good attitude and carry yourself with grace. Not only will you appear taller, you will radiate self confidence and allure.



Know about yours what looks good. You are logically attracted to clothes, styles and colors that praise your outline. Use past experience to your advantage and trust your intuition, sometimes fashion and beauty etiquette comes naturally. Feel free to experiment!

Beware of those "skinny" mirrors in department stores that are misleading. If a style didn't look good on you in the past, it won't now -- unless you've made some significant changes.

This style guide is for general fashion tips and advice. Check out the current fashion trends to get the latest tips and tricks for the newest styles.
Have plenty of neutrals on hand to mix and match.

Open collar shirts and scoop necks will lengthen a short neck. Add a long necklace.
Tailored clothes praise most statistics.

Buy similar styles of the clothes you already own that .

Always carry a safety pin in your purse for emergencies.

For a quick fix, if your slacks or slip is too long, roll it up at the waist.

Break in your shoes before wearing for an entire day or special occasion.

Use dryer sheets or fabric spray to reduce static cling.

If you're losing or gaining weight, go to your local thrift store and get some in-between sizes that fit.

Make sure your pantyhose fit correctly. Tugging on them in public is a no-no.

Don't be afraid to try anything new.

Always clean your clothing before you store it.

Apply your perfume before dressing to prevent staining your clothing.

Don't bare all. Leave some mystery to your look.

Secure your buttons by dabbing the backs of them with fingernail polish or clear glue. This prevents the stitching from coming loose.

If you're concerned about clingy clothing, don't buy anything with more than 5% Lycra.

Leather has a tendency to stretch, so buy your pants one size smaller.

Don't fret if you see an outfit in a magazine that is too pricey for your budget. You can probably put together the same outfit at stores such as the Gap and Old Navy, at a fraction of the price. Just cut out the picture and take it shopping with you. And you can try to have something like this by your own Creative knowledge. To closing your eyes have a smash by your idea. Surely you will get some pleasant outputs.