WOW, Factor in Web Design – In today’s digital age, a website that stands out is essential for businesses and individuals. With so many online websites, capturing users’ attention and keeping them engaged can take time. That’s where the wow factor comes in. The wow element in website design can create a memorable and engaging user experience. The WOW factor differentiates between a killer website design and a standard, ho-hum design. For example, when someone looks at your website, do you want them to say, “Gee, this looks nice.’ Or do you want them to say, “WOW, this website is great!”
WHAT IS THE WOW FACTOR?
The wow factor grabs people’s attention and makes them stop in their tracks. It’s an element in a website design that is unexpected and exciting, leaving a lasting impression on users. The wow factor can be anything from stunning graphics and animations to interactive features and unique layouts. The key is to create a design that is visually appealing and offers something that users can’t find anywhere else.
Tips for incorporating the wow factor in website design:
#1 FOCUS ON USER EXPERIENCE
The wow factor should enhance the user experience, not detract from it. Ensure the design is user-friendly and the wow factor doesn’t hinder usability. For example, adding a large, flashy animation that takes up the entire screen may be visually stunning. Still, it could be more effective if it prevents users from finding the necessary information.
#2 USE HIGH-QUALITY VISUALS
Visuals are a crucial component of website design, and using high-quality images, videos, and graphics can make a significant impact. Incorporate relevant visuals into the content and brand to tell a story. For example, a food blog could use mouth-watering images of its recipes to entice users to try them out.
#3 INCORPORATE ANIMATION, VIDEO, OR INTERACTIVITY
Animations and interactivity can add an extra layer of engagement to a website design. Use animations to highlight key points, such as when a user hovers over a call-to-action button. Interactive elements, such as quizzes or games, can keep users engaged and encourage them to spend more time on the site.
#4 EXPERIMENT WITH UNIQUE LAYOUTS
A unique layout can help a website stand out from the crowd. Experiment with designs that suit the content and brand, and use them to create a memorable experience. For example, a fashion brand could use a horizontal scrolling layout to showcase its latest collection.
#5 KEEP IT CLEAN AND SIMPLE
While incorporating the wow factor is important, it’s essential to remember to keep the design simple and easy to navigate. A cluttered design can overwhelm users and prevent them from engaging with the content. Keep the design clean and streamlined, and ensure users can easily find what they want.
Don’t try to squeeze 20 pounds of information into a 5-pound sack. In other words, give the design some breathing room. Don’t jam everything up. You are way ahead of the game if you have tons of information. However, you should display your data within the proper editorial framework on your website. Therefore, keep content separate with graphics and separators to avoid ‘information clutter.’
#6 BEGIN WITH A GREAT CREATIVE CONCEPT
A concept can be almost anything. For example, instead of using the standard boring message text, ‘We are Under Construction,’ the company created hand-drawn artwork. Specifically, they did a pencil sketch of their new website, complete with logo and navigation! A quick illustration or concept of a website and logo is an innovative and clever way to communicate that they are “under construction.”
#7 DEVELOPING A CONCEPT
You want to think inside the box, outside the box, and all around the box. The idea here is not to fall in love with the first idea you think of or the first example you see. It’s like buying a car. Take time to write down thoughts and ask other people’s opinions.
I recently saw an excellent web concept that ties the past to the present—an auto collector website for collector enthusiasts built on an archeological theme, a la Indiana Jones. The underlying message was that vintage auto collection and restoration could be fun, exciting, rewarding, and lucrative.
#8 AVOID THE “WHAT?” FACTOR
There should be no doubt or ambiguity about what your website is all about. Your message, your concept, and your website should be ON POINT.
You have a few seconds to communicate your message before your visitor moves to the following website. Moreover, you want visitors to have a crystal clear picture of your products or services.
#9 KEEP NAVIGATION CLEAR AND CONCISE
Your navigation is clear and concise. (Stay away from artsy mystery meat navigation or hidden roll-overs). Please keep it clean. For example, users quickly scan a page for links, text, and photos. Therefore, keep these elements front and center. Moreover, keep your primary message face-front and place your additional informational content in less conspicuous areas of your website. For example, here are some navigation tabs and pages you might consider creating.
a. Create an Editorial Section
b. Provide Articles or How-To Guides
c. Create a Knowledge Base / Glossary of Terms
d. Post a question and answers page (FAQ)
e. Post News Stories and the latest news related to your site’s topic.
f. Provide Guest Interviews
g. Provide Product Reviews
h. Create a forum on your site.
i. Create a blog
#10 USE QUALITY PHOTOS AND GRAPHICS
Your photos or graphics are essential in communicating your brand and messaging. Use pictures and graphics that represent your products or services in a positive light. TIP: You can find great graphics and photos for purchase online.
IN CONCLUSION
Incorporating the wow factor in website design can help businesses and individuals create a memorable and engaging user experience. Website designers can create a plan that stands out by focusing on user experience, using high-quality visuals, incorporating animations and interactivity, experimenting with unique layouts, and keeping it simple. Above all, WOW means WOW! In other words, WOW should be your first impression when something captures your eye. It is the visual difference between a Red Ferrari and a Ford Escort.
Also, see: Webpage Design 101
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