Here are some tips that will help you design a professional-looking Web site:
Make your Web site easy to read:
- Avoid busy backgrounds behind text
- Choose a legible font and font size
- Use a font color with high contrast to the background
- Size the page so the user does not have to scroll horizontally
Make your Web site easy to navigate:
- Label links so users know exactly where they lead
- Keep the visitors’ work to a minimum
- Label tabs and buttons with specific headings
- Remember that easy to read trumps flashy
Keep the elements consistent throughout the site:
- Graphics
- Typefaces
- Headings
- Hyperlinks
Optimize your download speed:
- Include graphics with the smallest possible file size that doesn’t compromise resolution
- Limit the use of animations and other elements that take a long time to download
Make a mock-up
It may be helpful to create a mock-up of your Web site in a program like Adobe PhotoShop or by sketching it out on paper. This can serve as a guide when you begin using HTML Editors and programming your Web site.