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60 Rules to Follow In Website Design

Designing a website is an important task that requires careful planning and attention to detail. In order to create a site that is visually appealing, easy to use, and effective at communicating your message, it’s important to follow a set of best practices.
January 8, 2023

Website Design Best Practices

In this blog post, we’ll discuss 60 rules that should be followed in website design, including guidelines on layout, language, navigation, and more. By following these rules, you can create a website that effectively meets the needs of your users and helps to achieve your business goals.

1. Use consistent formatting
Consistency in formatting makes it easier for users to scan and read your content. Use the same font, size, and color for headings, subheadings, and body text to create a cohesive look.
2. Keep it simple
A cluttered, complicated design can be overwhelming and confusing for users. Instead, opt for a clean and straightforward layout that allows users to easily find the information they need.
3. Use clear and concise language
Use language that is easy to understand and avoid jargon or technical terms that may be confusing to some users. This will make it easier for users to navigate your site and find the information they need.
4. Use white space effectively
White space, or the empty space around elements on your page, can help to make your design look clean and uncluttered. It also helps to draw attention to specific elements and makes them easier to read.
5. Make sure your site is mobile-friendly
With the increasing number of users accessing the internet on their smartphones, it’s important to make sure your site is responsive and looks good on mobile devices. This means that the layout should adjust to fit the screen size and all buttons and links should be easily clickable with a finger.
6. Use high-quality images
Using high-quality images can make a big difference in the overall look and feel of your site. Make sure to use clear, crisp images that are relevant to your content and that are properly sized for the web.
7. Choose appropriate colors
The colors you choose for your site can impact the way users perceive your brand and the overall tone of your site. Make sure to choose colors that are appropriate for your industry and that work well together.
8. Use appropriate typography
The font you choose can also impact the tone and style of your site. Make sure to choose a font that is easy to read and appropriate for your industry.
9. Use clear and descriptive headings
Headings are an important way to organize and structure your content. Make sure to use clear and descriptive headings that accurately reflect the content of the section.
10. Make sure your site is easy to navigate
A clear and intuitive navigation system is crucial for helping users find the information they need on your site. Make sure to organize your content into logical categories and use clear and descriptive labels for your navigation menu.
11. Use appropriate page layout
The layout of your page can impact the way users interact with your site. Make sure to use a layout that makes it easy for users to find the information they need and guide them through the site.
12. Work on cutting down load times
Long page load times can be frustrating for users, so it’s important to optimize your site for fast loading. This can be achieved through proper image optimization, using efficient code, and using a good hosting provider.
13. Use alt text for images
Alt text, or alternative text, is a description of an image that is displayed when the image is not loaded or when a user is using a screen reader. Alt text helps to improve the accessibility of your site and can also be used by search engines to understand the content of your images.
14. Use descriptive and keyword-rich URLs
URLs that are descriptive and include relevant keywords can help users understand the content of a page and can also improve your site’s search engine ranking.
15. Use social media integration
Integrating social media into your site can help you connect with your audience and drive traffic to your site. Make sure to include links to your social media accounts and consider adding social sharing buttons to make it easy for users to share your content.
16. Use A/B testing
A/B testing allows you to compare two versions of a page to see which one performs better. This can be a helpful tool for optimizing your site and improving the user experience.
17. Use analytics
Analytics tools, such as Google Analytics, can provide valuable insights into how users are interacting with your site. By analyzing this data, you can identify areas for improvement and optimize your site to better meet the needs of your users.
18. Use security measures
It’s important to make sure your site is secure to protect both your business and your users. This can be achieved through measures such as using SSL certificates and implementing proper password protocols.
19. Use structured data
Structured data, also known as schema markup, is a way to help search engines understand the content of your site. By using structured data, you can improve your site’s search engine ranking and make it more likely that your content will be displayed in rich search results.
20. Use accessibility standards
Making your site accessible means that it can be used by people with disabilities, such as those who are blind or have low vision. This can be achieved through measures such as using descriptive alt text for images, using proper headings and hierarchy, and using clear and concise language. Ensuring that your site is accessible can help you reach a wider audience and improve the user experience for all users.
21. Use clear and descriptive titles and meta descriptions
The title and meta description of a page are important elements that appear in search engine results. Make sure to use clear and descriptive titles and meta descriptions that accurately reflect the content of the page and include relevant keywords.
22. Use proper heading structure
roper heading structure helps users understand the hierarchy and organization of your content, and it can also help search engines understand the content of your page. Make sure to use the appropriate heading tags (H1, H2, etc.) and use headings to organize and structure your content.
23. Use internal linking
Internal linking, or linking to other pages on your site, can help users navigate your site and find related content. It can also help search engines understand the structure and hierarchy of your content.
24. Use appropriate file names
Using descriptive and relevant file names for images and other media can help users understand the content of the file and can also improve your site’s search engine ranking.
25. Use appropriate anchor text
Anchor text is the visible text that is used to link to other pages. Make sure to use descriptive and relevant anchor text that accurately reflects the content of the linked page.
26. Use calls to action
Calls to action (CTAs) are elements on your site that encourage users to take a specific action, such as signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase. Make sure to use clear and descriptive CTAs that are placed in prominent locations on your site.
27. Use appropriate forms
Forms, such as contact forms or sign-up forms, can be an important part of your site. Make sure to use clear and concise labels and fields, and consider using form validation to improve the user experience.
28. Use video and multimedia appropriately
Video and other multimedia elements can be a great way to engage users and improve the user experience. However, it’s important to make sure that these elements are used appropriately and do not negatively impact the performance of your site.
29. Use cookie consent banners
If you use cookies on your site, it’s important to let users know and obtain their consent. Make sure to use a cookie consent banner that clearly explains how you use cookies and provides users with the option to accept or decline.
30. Use appropriate error handling
It’s important to make sure that your site handles errors gracefully and provides users with helpful information if something goes wrong. Make sure to use clear and descriptive error messages and consider providing users with options to resolve the error, such as a link to the homepage or a search bar.
31. Use clear and descriptive alt tags for buttons
Alt tags for buttons, also known as alternative text, provide a description of the button for users who are using screen readers or who have images turned off. Make sure to use clear and descriptive alt tags that accurately reflect the purpose of the button.
32. Use appropriate input types
There are various input types that can be used in forms, such as text, email, and password fields. Make sure to use the appropriate input type for each field to improve the user experience and ensure that the form is properly validated.
33. Use appropriate error messages
Error messages are an important part of the user experience, as they help users understand what went wrong and how to fix it. Make sure to use clear and descriptive error messages that provide users with helpful information and instructions.
34. Use breadcrumb navigation
Breadcrumb navigation is a way to show users the path they took to reach their current page and allow them to easily navigate back to previous pages. Make sure to use clear and descriptive breadcrumb labels and consider using breadcrumb navigation for larger sites.
35. Use appropriate search functionality
A search bar can be a helpful feature for users who are looking for specific information on your site. Make sure to use a clear and intuitive search bar that returns relevant results and consider using filters or facets to help users narrow down their search.
36. Use appropriate 404 pages
A 404 page is displayed when a user attempts to access a page that does not exist. Make sure to use a clear and helpful 404 page that provides users with options to navigate back to the homepage or search for the content they were looking for.
37. Use appropriate redirects
Redirects are used to send users to a different URL than the one they requested. Make sure to use appropriate redirects, such as 301 redirects for permanent redirects and 302 redirects for temporary redirects.
38. Use appropriate 404 handling
It’s important to make sure that your site handles 404 errors gracefully and provides users with helpful information if they encounter a broken link. Consider using a custom 404 page or providing users with options to navigate back to the homepage or search for the content they were looking for.
39. Use appropriate pagination
Pagination is used to split long lists of content into multiple pages. Make sure to use clear and intuitive pagination, such as numbered pagination or “next” and “previous” buttons, and consider using infinite scrolling or “load more” buttons for longer lists.
40. Use appropriate feedback mechanisms
Feedback mechanisms, such as ratings and reviews, can be a helpful way to gather user feedback and improve the user experience. Make sure to use clear and concise labels and consider using moderation tools to ensure that the feedback is appropriate and helpful.
41. Use appropriate layout for different screen sizes
It’s important to make sure that your site looks good and is easy to use on different screen sizes, including desktop, tablet, and mobile. Consider using responsive design or a mobile-first approach to ensure that your site adjusts properly to different screen sizes.
42. Use appropriate hover effects
Hover effects, such as changing the color or style of an element when a user hovers over it, can be a helpful way to add interactivity to your site. Make sure to use hover effects that are appropriate for your site and that enhance the user experience.
43. Use appropriate transitions and animations
Transitions and animations, such as fades and slides, can be a helpful way to add visual interest to your site. Make sure to use transitions and animations that are appropriate for your site and that enhance the user experience.
44. Use appropriate accordions and tabs
Accordions and tabs can be a helpful way to organize and present content in a compact and easy-to-navigate format. Make sure to use clear and descriptive labels and consider using smooth transitions when opening and closing accordions or switching between tabs.
45. Use appropriate iconography
Icons can be a helpful way to add visual interest and clarity to your site. Make sure to use icons that are appropriate for your site and that are easy to understand.
46. Use appropriate typography
The font you choose can have a big impact on the look and feel of your site. Make sure to choose a font that is appropriate for your site and that is easy to read on different screen sizes.
47. Use appropriate margin and padding
Margin and padding are the spaces around and between elements on your page. Make sure to use appropriate margin and padding to create a cohesive and visually appealing layout.
48. Use appropriate grid systems
Grid systems, such as responsive grid systems, can be a helpful way to organize and structure your content and ensure that it looks good on different screen sizes. Make sure to use a grid system that is appropriate for your site and that helps to create a cohesive and visually appealing layout.
49. Use appropriate forms of payment
If you offer products or services for sale on your site, it’s important to make sure that you offer appropriate forms of payment. Consider including options such as credit card payments, PayPal, or Apple Pay to make it easy for users to make purchases.
50. Use appropriate customer service options
Providing good customer service is an important part of the user experience. Make sure to provide appropriate options for users to get help, such as a contact form or a live chat feature. Consider offering multiple ways for users to get help, such as phone, email, and social media, to ensure that you are able to meet the needs of your users.
51. Use appropriate language and tone
The language and tone you use on your site can impact the way users perceive your brand and the overall tone of your site. Make sure to use language that is appropriate for your audience and that reflects the style and tone of your brand.
52. Use appropriate images and graphics
Images and graphics can be a helpful way to add visual interest and clarity to your site. Make sure to use images and graphics that are appropriate for your site and that are high quality and properly sized for the web.
53. Use appropriate video and audio
Video and audio can be a great way to engage users and improve the user experience. Make sure to use video and audio that are appropriate for your site and that are properly formatted and optimized for the web.
54. Use appropriate user testing
User testing is a helpful way to gather feedback on your site and identify areas for improvement. Make sure to use appropriate user testing methods, such as focus groups or usability testing, to ensure that you are getting valuable feedback from your users.
55. Use appropriate search engine optimization (SEO)
SEO is the process of optimizing your site to improve its ranking in search engine results. Make sure to use appropriate SEO techniques, such as keyword research and on-page optimization, to improve your site’s visibility in search results.
56. Use appropriate conversion optimization
Conversion optimization is the process of improving the rate at which visitors to your site take a desired action, such as making a purchase or filling out a form. Make sure to use appropriate conversion optimization techniques, such as A/B testing and heatmap analysis, to improve the effectiveness of your site.
57. Use appropriate online advertising
Online advertising, such as display ads or paid search ads, can be a helpful way to drive traffic to your site. Make sure to use appropriate online advertising tactics and consider using tools such as Google AdWords to help target and track your ads.
58. Use appropriate content marketing
Content marketing is the process of creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience. Make sure to use appropriate content marketing tactics, such as guest blogging and social media promotion, to drive traffic to your site and improve the user experience.
59. Use appropriate email marketing
Email marketing is the process of sending targeted and personalized emails to a group of users to promote your business or products. Make sure to use appropriate email marketing tactics, such as segmentation and A/B testing, to ensure that your emails are effective and engaging.
60. Use appropriate influencer marketing
Influencer marketing is the process of partnering with influential people to promote your products or services. Make sure to use appropriate influencer marketing tactics, such as identifying relevant influencers and creating personalized campaigns, to effectively reach your target audience.

Overall, the key is to keep the user in mind and make sure your site is easy to use, visually appealing, and provides valuable content. By following these rules, you can create a website that effectively communicates your message and meets the needs of your users.

In Conclusion

There are many important rules that should be followed when designing a website. From keeping it simple and using clear language, to ensuring that it is mobile-friendly and easy to navigate, these guidelines can help to create a website that is effective and user-friendly. By following these rules and keeping the needs of your users in mind, you can create a website that effectively communicates your message and helps to achieve your business goals. Whether you are designing a website for the first time or looking to improve an existing site, following these guidelines can help you create a site that is successful and effective.



Written By • Jon D

Web Developer / Managing Director
Jon is a website designer in Flagstaff Arizona. He started with web design at the age of 17 where he created a website where he would test and choose the best software from around the internet. It was all hand coded with Homesite – at that time the best (in his humble opinion) HTML editor around. He believes in local economy, open source technology, and helps bring the best the internet has to offer to his clientelle.

Everything ‘By Design’

“I was exhilarated by the new realization that I could change the character of my life by changing my beliefs. I was instantly energized because I realized that there was a science-based path that would take me from my job as a perennial “victim” to my new position as “co-creator” of my destiny.
– Bruce H. Lipton Ph.D.

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