Web design is a dynamic field where trends, technologies, and best practices evolve continuously. However, amidst the sea of useful advice, there's plenty of misguided or downright terrible advice that can steer projects off course. Here, we delve into some of the worst advice we've ever heard about web design and why you should avoid it.
"Design for Desktop First"
In the early days of the internet, designing for desktop users made sense because most users accessed websites from their computers. However, in today's mobile-centric world, this advice is not only outdated but also counterproductive. According to Statista, over 50% of global web traffic comes from mobile devices. Designing with a mobile-first approach ensures that your website is accessible, user-friendly, and efficient for the majority of users who browse on smaller screens.
Why It’s Terrible:
- Poor User Experience: A site designed for desktops may not translate well to mobile, leading to navigation issues and frustrating user experiences.
- Lower Rankings: Search engines like Google prioritize mobile-friendly websites in their rankings, so ignoring mobile design can harm your SEO efforts.
"More Features Equals Better Design"
It's easy to get caught up in adding as many features as possible to a website, from chatbots to complex animations. While these elements can enhance functionality, they can also overwhelm users and slow down the site.
Why It’s Terrible:
- Cluttered Interface: Too many features can make your website look cluttered and confuse users, detracting from the main purpose of the site.
- Slower Load Times: Additional features often mean more code, which can slow down your website. A slow website frustrates users and increases bounce rates.
"Copy Your Competitors"
Imitation might be the sincerest form of flattery, but in web design, it's a recipe for mediocrity. While it's wise to be aware of industry trends and competitor strategies, outright copying their design can lead to a lack of originality and differentiation.
Why It’s Terrible:
- Brand Identity Loss: Your website should reflect your unique brand identity and values. Copying competitors dilutes your brand and fails to communicate what makes you special.
- Outdated Trends: Competitors may not always follow best practices or keep their designs updated. Copying them means you might be adopting outdated or ineffective strategies.
"Design is All About Aesthetics"
While a visually appealing website is important, focusing solely on aesthetics at the expense of functionality and usability is a major misstep. Great web design balances beauty with usability, ensuring that visitors can easily navigate and find what they need.
Why It’s Terrible:
- User Frustration: A beautiful website that’s hard to use will quickly drive visitors away. Usability should always be a top priority.
- Lower Conversions: If users can’t find what they’re looking for or navigate your site easily, they’re less likely to convert into customers or clients.
"You Don’t Need Professional Help"
With the abundance of DIY web design tools available today, it’s tempting to believe that anyone can create a professional-looking website without any experience. While these tools are great for simple projects, more complex websites require the expertise of professional web designers and developers.
Why It’s Terrible:
- Limited Functionality: DIY tools often have limitations that can prevent your website from achieving its full potential.
- Subpar Design Quality: Without a professional touch, your website might not have the polished look and feel that users expect from reputable brands.
- SEO and Performance Issues: Professionals understand how to optimize your site for search engines and ensure it performs well across all devices.
