Designing a Better User Experience
We've all visited sites that are completely cluttered and offer more distractions than assistance to the end-user. Designing a better user experience increases conversion, retention, and can significantly impact your brand.
Finding equilibrium between design and usability can be tricky - sit in the middle of a web design meeting between designers and user experience managers and you will certainly here compelling cases for strong design vs. strong usability.
Here a few simple tips to help you de-clutter a website and build a more positive user experience:
1. Write for the Web
Write your content in an inverted pyramid beginning with the most important information first. Get to the point. Users should find information quickly. Also, utilize header content and bullet points, allowing users to scan content rather than read.
2. Place Form Labels Inside Input Forms
You'll find that some websites put labels to the left or above the form. By placing the label within the form field, you achieve the same result and save space while reducing clutter.
3. Use AJAX to Lightbox
Today, lightbox image/graph enlargements are superior to old-school pop-up windows. Adding lightbox to forms or images meant to be enlarged looks better, works better, and is simple to implement using jQuery or a similar script library.
4. Keep it Simplo Lightbox
There are exceptions, but most users would prefer to have a simple, easy to navigate website where they can find information quickly and easily. Design is meant to create an emotional bond, but too many page elements and cluttered design can confuse visitors and drive them away. De-cluttering a site can be work, but simple changes can make a world of difference and provide a much better user experience. After all, sites should be designed for the visitor's use, not for the designer's personal portfolio.
You'd be surprised how much these minor adjustments can clean up your website. It should always be clear that your designers and user experience managers are working together to achieve the same goals: positive user perceptions and experiences. These tips should help you get there.
