10 Web Design Issues & How to Rectify Them

Much like everything else in life, the world of web design is always evolving. As such, it’s important that websites evolve right along with the niche in order to provide a much better and more positive experience for users.

Despite some of web designers’ best efforts, some weird issues can be left behind on websites. Here is a list of some of problems with web design, and how to fix them.

1. Users don’t know where to look

Problem: If the website is lacking in structure, users will have no idea where to look. Perhaps there was no planning from the onset, or the growth of content wasn’t properly managed. Whatever the case may be, it could leave visitors confused.

Solution – Establish hierarchy. Be sure to give your website’s content some hierarchy. For instance, if you’re designing a landing page with the goal to collect email addresses, then make sure the design of the page reflects this goal. Create a hierarchy to point your visitors to your call to action.

2. Misguided navigation

Problem: If the navigation on the website isn’t constructed properly, users won’t know where to go next. This will only leave your visitors confused.

Solution – Don’t stray too much from the standard. Certain things work like a charm, and have for decades. By straying too far from the standard, you’re only setting your users up for confusion. Instead, stay within the boundaries of the standard to keep things easy and familiar.

3. Unnecessary splash page

Problem: Does your website really need a splash page? Odds are, it doesn’t. Many times they just annoy users and add more interaction than necessary.

Solution – Get rid of it. The simple solution here is just to not use a splash page at all. Just include this content within the architecture of your website.

4. Users are confused by what certain things mean

Problem: If the reference imagery and content on your website are inconsistent, it will only make users wonder what certain things mean.

Solution – Limit icons. Put a cap on the number of icons you use and just go with their original definitions.

5. Unresponsive website

Problem: Users are likely using many devices other than a desktop to search the internet. Sites that are unresponsive to digital devices will only force users to have to zoom in and scroll to read the content, which can get annoying.

Solution – Make the site mobile responsive. Find out what users want when they are on the website on their mobile phones versus their PCs. Once you find that out, restrict your content and design to reflect these desires.

6. The website is too bright

Problem: If the colours and graphics on the side are too bright or flashy, it can be very detracting and even blinding.

Solution – Limit the colour palette. Don’t overdo it with the number of colours that you’re using, and make sure to define the role of each colour.

7. The website is too tall

Problem: If users have to keep scrolling and scrolling for what seems like forever to get to the bottom of the page, then it’s far too tall.

Solution – Create deeper pages. By doing so, you’ll create a more positive user experience, and reduce the bounce rate.

8. Neglecting all pages except the homepage

Problem: Your homepage may be super impressive, but if you’ve focused too much on this page and neglected the rest, you won’t be impressing your users.

Solution – Dedicate just as much effort to all other pages. Every page on your website is important, so make sure that you retain that same level of determination as you had with the homepage.

9. Too many questions on the contact form

Problem: There are only so many questions that you need to ask on your contact form. Too many will overwhelm and annoys users.

Solution – Limit the questions. Keep your contact form as short and concise as possible. Limit the information that you ask for from your users, and they’ll be more likely to finish completing a form that’s well structured and brief.

10. The web design doesn’t reflect your product

Solution: Understand the audience that you’re designing your website for. Find out who your audience is and what they’re looking for, and determine how best to communicate to them.

Are there other common web design issues you encounter that you think should be added to this list?