Most people don’t build cars from scratch. While that is an unrealistic dream for many, we all can use our creativity and some basic knowledge to develop a web page that is just as spectacular. With some knowledge, you can create a site that is stunning. The information below will give you some excellent advice about basic web design.
Make sure your text and background has the proper contrast. There’s evidence showing that white text on a black background is easiest for most people to read, but other colors are fine so long as they’re readable. Also keep in mind that people with visual impairments may not be able to read your site if the contrast is poor. Check to see if your site complies with various contrast standards using the tool at http://snook.ca/technical/colour_contrast/colour.html .
Use a descriptive title. Many site owners forget to name their pages, or name them something generic, such as “Welcome Page.” Search engines do use title descriptions in their rankings, so make sure you are as descriptive as possible, without going overboard. Make sure it is usable for your viewers and the search engines.
Learn the basics of HTML and CSS. Although there are many templates that allow you to just fill in the blanks, in order to create a web page, these templates provide only limited design possibilities. Understanding how the mark-up language and stylesheet work together will enable you to customize your website to your heart’s content.
Build your website using a content management system. Knowing how to build a website using just HTML and CSS is good foundation knowledge, but this can only produce a static website. Web design has evolved into providing dynamic content. If you couple your coding skills with the use of a content management system, you can practically build any type of website that you desire.
If you want more visitors to your site, you need to design it in a way that makes it easy to update content. If your site can be easily updated it helps you to be able to quickly add new and relevant information. A site that is constantly updated will keep your visitors coming back for more.
Do not use blinking, scrolling text or other animations. Also, steer clear of sounds or music that plays automatically. All of these things are distracting to users and provide nothing of value. In addition, connection speeds vary from one site visitor to the next, and everyone does not have the same speed. Those users with slower connections will resent the slow-loading elements of your site.
You must hold your user’s needs as a top priority. The focus of the end user should always be at the forefront of the designer’s mind. For example, many users are concerned about accessibility, usability, user interaction and user experience. These are important considerations to make. Always view the design from the vistor’s perspective.
Once you read through these ideas once or twice, practice them quickly by registering at a free web hosting demo service. Then, you will see how simple it is to do when you have the basics. This will be the start of designing a creative and interesting site that visitors will enjoy. Just remember to use what you’ve learned above.