We all know intuitively what makes a website look bad: overused bevel effects, corny clip art, overcrowded layouts. These annoyances are easily corrected by developing with design fundamentals in mind – the same principles used by professional designers and artists alike. Here are a few points which cause your website designs to really look bad.
What Makes a Website Look Bad?
Lack of Interest in Design:
- First and foremost, you must have an interest in design. A lack of passion often results in poorly executed websites.
Ignoring Design Rules:
- Not following fundamental design rules can make your website look unprofessional.
Bad Color Combinations:
- Using clashing color combinations where text and background colors merge can make content hard to read.
Distorted Images and Text:
- Stretching images or text distorts their appearance and looks unprofessional.
Overusing Gradient Effects:
- Gradients can be effective when used sparingly. Overuse makes the design look outdated and amateurish.
Use of Corny Clip Art:
- Using funny or clichéd clip arts can detract from the professionalism of your site.
Misuse of Bevel Tools:
- Going overboard with bevel tools can make the design look rough and unrefined.
Inappropriate Fonts:
- Choosing fonts that do not support your content can make reading difficult and detract from the overall aesthetic.
Overloading with Scripts:
- Overloading your site with too many scripts can slow down load times and negatively impact user experience.
Lack of Cross-Browser Compatibility:
- Not checking your site’s compatibility across different browsers can lead to a poor user experience for some visitors.
Avoiding Constructive Critique:
- Not taking feedback from knowledgeable people can result in a design that doesn't meet users' needs.
Keys to Good Design
Analyze and Understand the Customer:
- A good designer reads the mind of the customer to understand exactly what they are looking for.
Work Within Time Frames:
- Creativity should be showcased within stipulated time frames to ensure timely delivery and relevance.
Fundamentals of Design:
- Understanding and applying design principles such as balance, contrast, alignment, and hierarchy is crucial.
Color Theory:
- Use color theory to create appealing and effective color schemes.
Typography:
- Select fonts that enhance readability and complement the overall design.
Responsive Design:
- Ensure your website looks good and functions well on all devices and screen sizes.
Usability:
- Focus on creating a user-friendly interface that provides a seamless experience for visitors.
Consistency:
- Maintain consistency throughout your design to provide a cohesive and professional look.
Conclusion
Creating a good website layout requires using your whole brain – blending creativity with logical thinking and technical skills. By avoiding common pitfalls and adhering to design principles, you can create aesthetically pleasing and highly functional websites that engage users and meet their needs.
