When it comes to building a great website that draws customers and converts traffic to sales, there are many factors to consider. One element that cannot be overlooked is UX — but what exactly is it?
Let’s explore why UX is such an important part of web design for your Gloucester business.
What is UX?
UX stands for user experience. It encompasses everything that contributes to the way a visitor experiences a website: what they see, how fast the page loads, how they find what they’re looking for, etc. Sounds straightforward, right? When designing a website, you want to think about each step of the user journey, from clicking on that enticing SERP listing to submitting those all-important payment details.
But what difference does it really make? You love your business and know that what you’re selling is the creme de la creme of your industry… So why bother with the intricacies?
Why does it matter?
Well, UX plays a big role in whether or not a website visitor buys your fabulous wares or runs for the hills.
Good UX can increase conversions
Whatever industry you’re in, chances are you have competitors. When choosing between companies, a potential customer will likely compare the experience they had using each website.
Even if you’ve tempted them with impeccable social media ads, if the website UX isn’t up to scratch, your visitors will only get so far.
If a page is slow to load on your site, for instance, they may get frustrated and leave. If the next site they click on loads quickly and has a great user experience, they’re more likely to purchase from there.
Effective UX can also encourage return customers. If they like what they see, get the end result they want AND had a smooth journey doing so, they’re more likely to come back again than risk a poor user experience on another site.
It can boost your SEO ranking
UX is also an important part of SEO and making your website discoverable. Search engines like Google use various user-engagement metrics to rank websites. While Google’s algorithms may be updated frequently, sites that give the user what they’re looking for in the most convenient way will always climb higher on those SERPs.
What makes a great user experience?
UX will be different for every website. The main thing to have in mind is what your ideal customers want and need — and how you can fulfil it. However, some aspects of UX design are vital for any website and can contribute to higher SEO rankings.
Page speed or load time.
As previously mentioned, slow websites lead to higher bounce rates.
Mobile responsive design
64% of searches happen on mobile devices so it’s essential to make sure your website works as well on mobile as it does on desktop.
User friendly URLs
Your URLs should be clear, concise, and contain keywords that help visitors understand what each webpage is about. Bonus: a clear URL will help search engines decipher your page, too!
Logical site navigation
Can visitors easily work out where to find certain pages or information on your site? An intuitive layout with enticing CTAs will keep the user going on their journey from browsing to purchasing.
Another way to ensure users can navigate your website easily is to create well-structured, streamlined menus that guide them along.
Improve your web design with Nettl of Gloucester & Cheltenham
No matter what field you work in — e-commerce, B2B services, or — there’s no denying that the world is increasingly digital. To get the most out of your website, it’s essential to always have the user experience in mind at every step. Improved UX design can boost your SERP rankings and help your business grow.
If you’re looking for support from an experienced web design and digital marketing agency, we’re here to help. Take a look at our portfolio or feel free to get in touch for a chat today.