User-centred design aims to understand the needs of users, customers, and audiences so businesses can provide them with the best products and services. In web design, it entails designing websites that are visually appealing, easy to use, and provide an excellent user experience. Web designers and developers must balance functionality and aesthetics if they want their websites to meet user-centred design principles.
For businesses getting a new website or having their existing one revamped, here are the reasons you should always keep the user in mind throughout this process.
It Leads to Increased User Engagement
User engagement measures how valuable and usable visitors find your website and how much they interact with it. When they engage with it, they are more likely to spend more time reading your content, share it, sign up, complete purchases or take other actions you want them to, depending on your goals and objectives.
Without following user-centred principles, visitors will have difficulty using the website, navigating, or otherwise taking other actions. The negative first impression and user experience they get will lead them to leave and tank your conversion rates.
It Improves Accessibility
Accessibility has become a crucial consideration when picking a web design agency. It requires designers and developers to create websites that are easy to use and provide as little friction to people with disabilities. For example, the website should be easy to navigate for those only using a mouse, keyboard, or screen reader.
Better accessibility increases reach, can increase traffic, and improves engagement among users who might otherwise not have been able to use the website. It also leads to users sharing it with others in the same situation who might be unable to use your competitors’ websites due to accessibility issues but can use yours easily.
User-centred Design Is Crucial for SEO
Websites created with users in mind are often better optimised for SEO. The main reason for this is that they are usually more accessible and user-friendly, both crucial ranking factors.
Their higher engagement rates also lead to lower bounce rates and an increase in the amount of time users spend on them. While Google says it no longer places as much emphasis on these metrics as it once did, websites that do well in both regards tend to rank higher.
It Improves Brand Image and Trust
Unless you run an extensive marketing campaign, many people will encounter your business and brand for the first time after completing a search. The first impression they get will determine how they perceive your business going forward.
A well-designed website that focuses on user experience shows the business values professionalism and can be trusted. With the perception that it cares about the visitor and their experience, users are more likely to think the same about its products and services.
A user-centred design is also crucial for differentiation. Too many websites use similar designs, elements, and content that confuse visitors. Ensure better brand awareness and recognition by using a bespoke design that speaks to your audience’s needs.
Your online visitors can be an incredible asset for your business because they are the ones who drive sales and revenue. Creating a website with their needs in mind has numerous benefits for them and you, so hire designers who understand user-centred designs and how to leverage them.
