Although each website is a new project, some golden rules always apply. Discover the fundamental guidelines for web design.
Good web design is about achieving the perfect balance between aesthetics and usability.
A well-designed site builds trust and guides visitors to take action, while creating a pleasant user experience.
So, how will your website provide a great experience from start to finish? Keep reading to discover how to design a website using important principles for effective results, why they matter, and how to apply them correctly in your next design project with Wix Studio.
12 principles of good web design
01. Seamless navigation
Great navigation allows visitors to easily find the information they're looking for. Without it, users may struggle to understand what to do when they land on your page. It’s essential to structure your site logically and predictably. Using structured menus, keyword searches, and internal links helps users stay oriented
02. Responsive design
Responsive design adjusts fluidly to fit the visitor’s device or browser. This ensures your site works well on any screen size, from mobile to desktop, resizing images and reorganizing content.
Sex Coaching, developed by Estudio CKS.
03. Consistency across the site
A consistent design enhances usability and learning. This includes colors, typography, icons, and site functionality. A style guide or design system with reusable elements can help ensure consistency.
04. Strong branding
Web design is part of branding. A strong brand establishes a cohesive and memorable identity that differentiates a company from its competitors. This is reflected in the logo, color scheme, and typography, all fundamental aspects of good web design.
05. Smooth performance
A well-designed site should load quickly, function properly, and provide feedback when there are issues or delays. Optimize performance by adjusting image sizes and fixing technical problems.
06. Frictionless conversion
The process for visitors to sign up, subscribe, or make purchases should be as simple as possible. Eliminate distractions, confusion, and unnecessary steps to make conversions easy.
07. Clear communication
Websites communicate in many ways: written content, visual elements, and interactive components. Ensure visitors quickly understand why your site exists, what you offer, and what actions they can take.
08. Effective visual language
Good web design uses colors, icons, typography, and images to create a powerful visual language. This language should be clear, distinctive, and reflect a unique brand identity.
MBA Tutor, developed by Estudio CKS.
09. Hierarchical content structure
Content should be well-organized and easy to digest. Visual hierarchy guides users toward the most important information through the use of color, contrast, size, and white space.
10. Familiar web conventions
The best web design follows familiar conventions, making navigation intuitive. Using known standards, like a navigation bar at the top, helps users quickly find information.
11. Trustworthy and transparent interface
A trustworthy site instills confidence in visitors. Information should be clear, accurate, and error-free, including transparent disclosures about pricing, data usage, and honest testimonials.
12. Low cognitive load
A website shouldn’t feel overwhelming or cluttered. Minimizing complexity helps users find what they need effortlessly, improving usability and user satisfaction.
