Introduction
Creating a website is not just about making it look good. It’s about making it easy for users to navigate and find the information they need. This is where website usability comes in. In this article, we’ll be discussing some website usability guidelines to follow in 2023.
1. Keep It Simple
The first rule of website usability is to keep it simple. Users don’t want to be bombarded with a lot of information or complicated designs. Keep the layout of your website clean and organized, making it easy for the user to find what they’re looking for.
Example
Take a look at the Google homepage. It’s simple, easy to navigate, and has a clear purpose – to search for information. This is a great example of keeping it simple.
2. Make It Mobile-Friendly
More and more users are accessing websites on their mobile devices. It’s important to ensure that your website is optimized for mobile use. This means using responsive design, making sure the website loads quickly, and ensuring that the text and images are easy to read on a smaller screen.
Example
Check out the mobile version of the Amazon website. It’s easy to navigate, the images are clear, and the text is easy to read. This is a great example of making a website mobile-friendly.
3. Use Clear and Concise Language
When writing the content for your website, it’s important to use clear and concise language. Avoid using complicated jargon or technical terms that users may not understand. Keep it simple and to the point.
Example
Take a look at the language used on the Dropbox website. It’s clear and easy to understand, making it easy for users to know what the service offers.
4. Use Contrasting Colors
Using contrasting colors helps to make your website stand out and makes it easier for users to navigate. Use colors that complement each other and make sure that text is easy to read against the background.
Example
The Slack website is a great example of using contrasting colors. The blue and purple colors used make the website stand out, and the white text is easy to read against the background.
5. Make Navigation Easy
Navigation is key to website usability. Make sure that your website has easy-to-use navigation menus, so users can quickly find what they’re looking for. Use clear and concise labels for navigation items.
Example
The Airbnb website has great navigation. The menu is clearly labeled and easy to use, making it simple for users to find the information they need.
6. Use High-Quality Images
Images help to make your website visually appealing and can also help to convey information. Make sure that the images you use are of high quality and relevant to the content on your website.
Example
The Apple website is a great example of using high-quality images. The images are clear, relevant, and help to convey the purpose of the product being sold.
7. Keep Load Times Fast
Users expect websites to load quickly. If your website takes too long to load, users may leave and look for information elsewhere. Make sure that your website is optimized for fast load times.
Example
The website for Basecamp loads quickly, making it easy for users to access the information they need without waiting for the website to load.
8. Use Consistent Design
Consistency is key to website usability. Use a consistent design throughout your website, so users know what to expect. This includes using the same fonts, colors, and layout throughout your website.
Example
The HubSpot website is a great example of using consistent design. The fonts, colors, and layout are consistent throughout the website, making it easy for users to navigate.
9. Use White Space Effectively
White space refers to the empty space between elements on your website. Effective use of white space helps to make your website look clean and organized. It also makes it easier for users to find the information they need.
Example
The website for Squarespace uses white space effectively. The website looks clean and organized, and it’s easy to find the information you need.
10. Test Your Website
Finally, it’s important to test your website. Use user testing to get feedback on the usability of your website. This will help you identify any issues and make improvements to your website.
Example
The website for UserTesting.com is a great example of testing your website. The company offers user testing services, which can help you identify any usability issues on your website.
Conclusion
Following these website usability guidelines will help you create a website that is easy to use and navigate. Keep it simple, use clear and concise language, make it mobile-friendly, use contrasting colors, make navigation easy, use high-quality images, keep load times fast, use consistent design, use white space effectively, and test your website. By following these guidelines, you’ll create a website that users will love to use.
