Why just having a website, isn’t good enough
When I was teaching at CPUT many years ago, one of the prescribed textbooks was Don’t make me think by Steve Krug. Even though I thought I knew the principles of website design and usability he highlighted, it only started to truly resonate when I applied them to my website design.
Since then, when I open a website where Steve’s principles are not applied, it is no shock to find out that the conversion of the website reflects this. Which made me realise, just having a website, it not good enough. Yes, it means you have an online presence, but does it do its job effectively? Effectively enough that it communicates clearly and effectively but more importantly, converts leads for your business?
This is our greatest motivator when approaching clients to find out if they are interested in redesigning and in effect, redeveloping their website. We want their online presence to be the best version it can be which in turn will create the most possible traction in terms of leads.
If you are now wondering if your website is the best version of itself, here is a quick test you can do with a new user. 5 things to test your website’s optimization to Not make users think extrapolated from Steve Krug’s book.
- Five-Second Test:
Show your website to a new user for five seconds and then ask them what they remember. This helps determine if your site’s purpose and navigation are clear at a glance.
- Task-Based Testing:
Ask users to complete specific tasks on your website. Observe how easily and quickly they can achieve these tasks without assistance.
- First-Time User Experience:
Test with users who have never seen your website before and ask them how their visual experience was. Their fresh perspective can highlight areas of confusion that more experienced users might overlook.
- Simplified Language:
What type of language are you using on the site? Did the user understand everything that was communicated on the site? Use plain language and avoid jargon. Ensure that content is straightforward and easy to understand.
- Mobile Optimization:
Ensure your website is fully responsive and provides a seamless experience on mobile devices. The largest percentage of users view websites on mobile first.
Once you have done this test, you will immediately know if your site needs a make-over, or if it’s performing at its peak. But if you are still unsure, feel free to contact us to get some input and advice on how to optimise your online presence. We will gladly assist in making sure you not only HAVE a website, but it also PERFORMS optimally.
