Introduction – What makes a great website?
In today’s digital landscape, having a great website is essential for success. A great website not only looks professional but also provides a seamless experience for its visitors, turning them into loyal customers. Below, we outline the top 10 qualities and features that define a truly exceptional website, designed with a focus on usability, aesthetics, and functionality.
1. Conversion-Focused Design
A good website is built with purpose: converting visitors into leads or customers. Key elements include:
- Benefit-Oriented Text: Clearly communicate the key advantages of your product or service.
- Lead Capture Forms: Make it easy for users to share their name and contact details
- Clear Call-to-Actions (CTAs): Strategically placed buttons guide visitors toward desired actions, such as “Sign Up” or “Contact Us.”
Additionally the first hero section of the homepage or landing page is the most important for conversions. This should ideally include a high quality image that depicts the product or service in action or someone benefiting from the product.
Where appropriate the website should include strategic copywriting (sales writing) to help turn views into sales.
2. Mobile Responsive Design
Your website must provide an optimal experience across all devices. A mobile-responsive design ensures that your content adapts seamlessly to various screen sizes, improving usability and accessibility for on-the-go users.
3. Fast Loading Speed
In today’s fast-paced world, users expect websites to load in under three seconds. Features that contribute to a fast website include:
- Optimised images to reduce file sizes without sacrificing quality.
- Lightweight coding frameworks.
- Reliable hosting solutions.
4. User-Friendly Interface
Simplicity is key when designing a website. A user-friendly interface ensures that visitors can navigate effortlessly. Features like intuitive menus, search functionality, and logical page layouts contribute to a smooth user experience.
5. Easy-to-Read Fonts
Readable typography enhances the accessibility and professionalism of your website. Choose fonts that are clean, legible, and consistent across devices, ensuring your content is easy to digest.
6. High-Quality Images
Visual appeal plays a major role in engaging visitors. Use enhanced, high-quality images that:
- Reflect your brand identity.
- Are optimized for fast loading speeds.
- Provide a professional touch to your overall design.
7. Engaging and Non-Repetitive Design
Your website should captivate users with a design that feels fresh and creative. Avoid repetitive layouts and elements by incorporating:
- Unique visual hierarchies.
- Dynamic content sections.
- Interactive features that hold users’ attention.
8. Responsive Customer Support Widget
Adding a customer support widget ensures that visitors can easily reach out for help or questions. Features to include:
- Real-time chat functionality.
- Automated responses for FAQs.
- Customizable widgets to match your brand.
9. Sharable Blogs
Great content is key to driving traffic and engagement. A blog section featuring relevant, sharable posts encourages visitors to:
- Learn more about your industry.
- Share your content on social media platforms, increasing your reach.
- Return to your website for valuable insights.
10. Professional Menu and Footer
Navigation and footer sections are the backbone of your website’s structure. Ensure they are:
- Easy to use and logically organized.
- Professionally designed to include key links, such as “About Us,” “Contact,” and social media handles.
- Consistent with your brand’s visual identity.
What Makes Your Website Unique?
While the features above are foundational, the best websites are tailored to their audience. Your website should reflect your brand’s voice and values, offering a unique experience that stands out in a crowded digital landscape.