Beginning any web design project, whether refining a homepage or enhancing an internal page, always starts with creating a wireframe.
Think of a wireframe like putting together a puzzle – it lays out the basic elements you need right from the start.
Imagine the wireframe as the blueprint of your digital space, outlining what goes where, how it’s structured, and how users will interact with it.
In every web design job, there’s a main goal – whether it’s getting people to fill out a form, give you a call, or make a purchase.
Wireframing, shown as a simple, black and white outline, offers plenty of options. You can keep it simple with pen and paper, sketching out the layout easily.
How Web Designing Is Actually Done
Now that you’ve got a wireframe, you’ve got a clear plan showing the content, blocks, and information to be arranged and presented on the screen. Remember, a website isn’t just about looking good.
As a web designer, you’ve got to think about SEO, making content, and getting people to take action – all important for making a homepage that works well, and any other page too.
Your first job as a web designer is to really get what the brand’s about: its style, logo, and colours. Pick fonts that fit the brand and work well online.
But the most important thing in designing is knowing who you’re designing for. Choose pictures that speak to the company’s ideal customer. And when it comes to writing, make sure it’s easy to read for the people you’re aiming at, especially if they’re older.
Using colours that match the brand helps people feel connected to it. And using icons smartly helps tell users what they need to know without making things too busy.
Making it clear where to click or call guides people to do what you want them to do, whether that’s calling, filling out a form, or clicking a button. And making sure the writing’s set up right helps search engines like Google find the site.
It’s important to get the balance right with white space – too much can make things feel empty, but too little can make it hard to take in. Getting it just right means people can read and enjoy what’s on the page.
What's The Difference Between a Web Developer and Web Designer?
Once the static design of your webpage is done, it’s time to move on to development. It’s important to understand that web designers and web developers have different roles.
Web designers create the visual blueprint of the homepage, deciding how it looks and works, while web developers bring this design to life through coding, making sure it works well on all devices and integrates all the parts prepared by the designer.
While developers work on coding the new homepage, you can spruce up the design with extra bits to catch users’ attention. Adding colour changes or subtle animations when hovering over buttons can encourage little interactions, making users feel more involved with the product.
Think about other features you could add to the homepage design, like:
- “Sticky Call to Action”
- Years of experience style “badge”
- Client logos
- Up to 6 key “USP’s”
- Certifications
- Associations
- Testimonials
- Privacy Policy / Terms & Conditions
Developers also focus on load time when making the webpage. For example, adding a long video clip to attract users is a bad move if it makes the page load slower. Instead, think about using a brief 10 – 15 second video loop or adding layers that move at different speeds as users scroll, giving the website a more polished look.
As a web designer, it’s important to remember these things and work closely with developers to create a design that works well and turns visitors into customers.
Why You Should Hire a Web Designer and How to Choose the Best Web Design Company
Creating an engaging homepage web design involves considering different factors. If the task seems overwhelming and you’re worried about its impact on your online presence, it’s best to leave it to the experts.
Here at Website Designs Brisbane, our diverse team handles everything from logo and branding to photos and videos, copywriting, web design, development, and ongoing SEO. We offer a complete digital solution that generates quality leads and inquiries.
In Summary
Your website needs to do more than just look good! The first impression you make on your audience can either draw them in to learn more about your business or send them running to your competitors’ sites.
Effective homepage web design not only keeps your leads engaged but also guides them through a meaningful journey. Design your site with your target audience in mind, ensuring a great user experience and strong SEO for high Google rankings. If you’re struggling to balance aesthetics and functionality in your web design, reach out to us, and let us help you create the functional and visually stunning website you have in mind!
