A GUIDE TO YOUR WEBSITE’S USER INTERFACE
User interface (UI) refers to the visual elements that make up your site, making the design of your website important. It should consider your visitor’s user experience (UX) and boast a functional structure to ensure the best usability, accessibility, and efficiency across the board.
Here is a quick guide to help evaluate your website’s UI:
Composition
- Keep important elements at the top of the page (or above the fold).
- Layout should be simple and easy to navigate.
- Consistency in design will help users move seamlessly throughout your site.
- Site structure should not exceed 3 layers of sub-navigation.
- Sites should be responsive across all devices (i.e., desktop, tablet, mobile, etc.).
- Pages should be quick loading to access information. Slow loading times may cause your visitor to go elsewhere.
Content
- More contrast equals better readability.
- Simple, clear and concise content makes visitors happy.
- Users typically scan content first and read second.
- Content should be legible across all devices.
- Messaging should be interesting and aligned with your brand’s voice.
- Following SEO best practices will help site visibility.
- Use typography to create hierarchy.
Clicking
- Links should stand out and explain where it leads.
- Navigation menu names should not exceed 3 words.
- Calls-to-action should be strong and engaging.
- Buttons should be large enough for easy click-ability (especially on mobile views).
Color & Contrast
- Design a color palette that meets your brand’s look and feel - then stick to it.
- Designate a specific color for your calls-to-action.
- Design for color-blind users, testing your site in grayscale for best contrast.
With the right UI strategy, your brand will lower bounce rates - driving visitors to take action. For more things to consider when developing your website’s overall experience, see Things to Consider Before Building Your Website.
Aedieno is a boutique creative agency. For website strategy, design and development, please contact us.