Today’s web designers face a variety of options and choices when creating a website design. It is easy to become enamored with the latest technology or visual affects and it is easy to design a site in which users can rapidly lose interest due to over complexity. Here are some simple tips to become a better designer.

1. Keep it Simple — Yes, that old KISS principle that we have heard so often is still one of the most important aspects of design to keep in mind. The goal of any designer should be to avoid unnecessary complexity. The best sites are those that are easy to navigate, quick to load, and straightforward. Don’t crowd the screen with too much content. Design for the screen using a sense of balance.

Unless there is a reason for a particular graphic, designers should avoid fancy graphics. They just are not necessary. You should also avoid Flash elements unless necessary. This will make your design more efficient and you’ll eliminate the chance of users leaving your site before they even get to your home page. Continue to read this article »