When it comes to web design, good looks only go so far. What really matters is how easy your site is to use. If visitors can find what they need quickly and without confusion, they’re far more likely to stick around – and even act. Here are some practical tips to help make your website more user-friendly.
Keep It Simple and Easy to Navigate
A clean, straightforward layout always wins. Make sure the navigation menu is easy to spot and follow and keep things consistent across your pages. Your homepage should act as a clear gateway to the rest of your site. If people must click around too much to find what they’re after, chances are they’ll give up and leave.
Write in Plain Language
No one wants to read walls of text filled with technical terms or industry jargon. Speak your audience’s language. Keep your sentences short, your tone friendly, and break up big blocks of content with headings, bullet points, or short paragraphs. The easier it is to read, the more likely people will keep going.
Make It Mobile-Friendly
Let’s be honest – most people are browsing on their phones these days. If your site isn’t mobile responsive, you’re probably losing visitors. Make sure your design works well on all screen sizes. That means menus that are easy to tap, text that’s readable without zooming in, and layouts that don’t fall apart on smaller screens.
Speed Matters
Nobody likes a slow-loading site. In fact, most users will click away if your page doesn’t load in a few seconds. To speed things up, compress images, avoid bulky code, and use tools like a content delivery network (CDN). A faster website isn’t just better for your visitors – it’s also a plus for search engines.
Add a Search Bar
If your site has lots of content, make it easy for people to find what they’re looking for. A search bar is a simple way to improve usability. Place it somewhere obvious, like in your header, and keep the design clean and clutter-free.
Think About Accessibility
Your website should work for everyone – including those using assistive tools like screen readers. That means using proper headings, image alt text, and labels that make sense. Not only is this the right thing to do, but it also makes your site better for everyone.
Need a Hand with Your Website?
If your current site feels clunky or hard to manage, we’re here to help. At Give the Dog a Bone, we build websites that don’t just look the part – they’re built with real people in mind.
If you have a project that you’d like to discuss with us, then get in touch today for an informal chat with a member of our team. We’re on hand to help you and your business grow online.