July 3, 2024

Are you looking to refresh your website or create a new site from scratch?

We’re here to guide you through the key elements that can make or break your website's success, and decide whether users will connect with you. From mobile responsiveness to cohesive branding, below are our top tips to ensure your website stands out in the digital landscape. So, read on to find out how to elevate your online presence and leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Mobile Responsiveness

Over half of all internet traffic comes from mobile devices, so your website must be easy to navigate on small devices. In today's fast-paced world, users expect seamless browsing experiences, whether they're on an iPhone, Samsung and even a tablet. A mobile-responsive website ensures that your content moves and adapts to different screen sizes, optimising readability and usability. In addition, search engines like Google prioritise mobile-friendly websites in their rankings, making mobile responsiveness a non-negotiable aspect of modern web design.

Search engine optimisation (SEO)

Keeping your website's SEO up-to-date is crucial for visibility, discoverability, and making sure you show up on that first page of Google. An up-to-date XML Sitemap submitted to Google Search Console ensures that search engines can index your pages effectively, improving your chances of ranking higher in search results. To support SEO on your website itself, optimising images, fixing broken links, and updating title tags and meta descriptions are essential SEO practices that enhance your website's overall performance and relevance. If you do need some support to tick this complex list off - do get in touch with our team.

Professional design

It may seem like a basic benchmark, but a visually appealing and user-friendly design is the cornerstone of a successful website. Beyond aesthetics, a professional design instils trust and credibility in your brand, encouraging visitors to explore further. From intuitive navigation to visually engaging layouts, every aspect of your website design should align with your brand identity and resonate with your target audience. Remember, first impressions matter, and a modern, well-designed website sets the stage for positive user experiences.

Relevant business details

Transparency is the key to building trust with your audience, especially in our digital age. Ensure that all relevant business information, including contact details and operating hours, is prominently displayed and up-to-date. Whether it's a physical address for local businesses or a contact form for online inquiries, accessibility to essential information enhances user experience and fosters credibility.

Strong visuals

Visual content is a powerful tool for capturing attention and conveying your brand's message effectively. High-quality images, videos, and graphics not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your website but also engage visitors on a deeper level. Invest in professional photography and compelling visuals that showcase your products, services, and brand personality, leaving a memorable impression on your audience.

Cohesive branding

Consistency is key when it comes to branding. Ensure that your website reflects your brand identity seamlessly, from your logo and colour palette to typography and tone of voice. A cohesive brand experience across all touchpoints reinforces brand recognition and loyalty, making it easier for customers to connect with and trust your brand wherever they interact with you.

Easy website navigation

User-friendly navigation is essential for guiding visitors through your website effortlessly. A well-organised menu structure and intuitive navigation paths enable users to find what they're looking for quickly and efficiently. Consider implementing features like filters or search bars to accommodate larger websites with extensive content, enhancing usability and user satisfaction.

Calls to action (CTAs)

Clear and compelling CTAs prompt visitors to take desired actions, whether it's making a purchase, subscribing to a newsletter, or contacting your business. Strategically placed CTAs throughout your website encourage user engagement and drive conversions. Remember to keep your CTAs concise, visible, and actionable to maximise their effectiveness.

Accessibility

Making your website accessible means making sure everyone can use it, no matter what challenges they face. By following guidelines like WCAG 2.1, you can make your site easier to use for people with disabilities and improve the experience for everyone. Key accessibility areas to focus on include accurately describing your images (through the use of alt-tags) and testing your website for those with colour blindness.

Dark mode

With the rising popularity of dark mode, consider implementing this feature on your website to enhance user experience and cater to user preferences. Dark mode not only reduces eye strain but also adds a touch of modernity to your design, aligning with industry standards and user expectations. Providing users with the option to switch between light and dark modes enhances flexibility and personalization, improving overall user satisfaction and engagement.

Bonus Tip:

Landing pages

Utilise landing pages effectively to target specific user intents and drive customer conversions (and your ROI!). By aligning landing page content with your user’s expectations, you can create a personalised and compelling user experience that encourages action. Don't forget to track and analyse landing page performance to optimise your conversion funnel and maximise results.

If you’re looking to enhance your current website, remember that here at Kōwhai Creative, we are here to support you every step of the way. Whether it's refreshing your design, optimising your SEO, or fine-tuning your user experience, our team is dedicated to helping you achieve digital excellence. 

Let us help you transform your website into an asset that not only reflects your brand but also drives results.