3 Essential Elements Every Web Site Needs

After more than 10 years of developing web sites, I have discovered there are certain elements each and every web site should contain. Many web sites seem to integrate these elements, while others seem to have completely missed the mark. We will look at each and every one of these elements and explain how you can make sure these elements are on your web site.

Design for Your Audience

No matter whether you are trying to sell a product or a service, or simply providing a source of information, knowing the intended audience is important. Knowing your audience will assist in the choice of colors, the look and feel of your site, as well as the content contained within the web site itself. Developing a web site for a younger audience you might decide to use bright colors and a more whimsical design. Compare this to a web site designed for an older audience where you might use larger fonts with darker colors used sparingly. Knowing your intended audience will also include determining which environment the visitor will be using. This can include the operating system, web browser and screen resolution.

Keep It Consistent

All too often I have seen web sites with each and every page appearing so different that I am sometimes confused to find out I am on the same web site. I am not saying everything must be exactly the same on every page, but some items such as the header image, main navigation, and placement of content are important to stay consistent throughout your web site. This will reassure the visitor they are still on your web site. You might also wish to maintain consistency with regard to fonts and their sizes.

Provide a Way Back Home

It might seem silly to say it is important to provide a link back to the main page of the web site, but I have seen some web sites where there is no link home, it's hidden, or worse yet it is in different places on each page. Additionally, breadcrumbs are nice as it allows the visitor to not only return to the main page for the web site, but also allows them to navigate up a level within your web site.

Including these three essential elements within your web site will go a long way to assist your visitors in using your web site. Additionally, testing your web site under as many different browsers and operating system as possible might help to point out any inconsistencies for your site. There are many more important items including using valid code and providing contact information or a contact form, if these items are needed for your visitors to get in touch with you.