I have been creating web sites since 1994.
The web has evolved since then and allows us to use all kinds of new technologies like Flash and java applets.
The problem is that the main focus of the site truly is the content.
You can add all sorts of bells and whistles, but the reason a visitor is at your site is because of the content.
Graphics
Although bandwidth has become larger, people still have to wait for pages to load.
Most people still dial up st 56K or lower.
Just because you may have a DSL connection most people do not.
Graphic file sizes should be small.
A web page with graphics and code should be only 40k.
40k is small enough for people to load quickly even on a slow dial up connection.
Navigation
Make it easy to move through your site.
I have seen pages that have image buttons that are so dark you can't read the text.
Your user have no idea where the links go so are hesitant to click them.
Link text that is ambiguous will also cause confusion.
Links that read "Music" is nondescript.
If you are linking to MP3s the use "MP3s".
If you are linking to a review or text content about your music then use a more descriptive title.
You are trying to entice the viewer to move through the site.
You need to sell the page on the other side of the link with nice descriptive text.
Text Size
Not everyone has great eyesight.
Using super small fonts is cutting out part of your audience.
Most bands think that their audience is young and have no problem reading small text.
You should ask yourself how old, and how well the record executive is that was tipped off to your burgeoning career.
That would be the last person you want to turn away because "small text is cool man."
K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple Stupid
You should always try to follow the rule of keeping it simple.
Complex designs may look good to you, but how does it look to someone on another computer running a different browser with a different operating system?
Flash intros and splash pages are just gimmicks.
No one visiting your site really cares about them.
Returning visitors really don't want to sit through or load a page that, in all actuality, is useless.
Try to make your site focused on the content; your band.
Thats the reason for the site anyway right.
Although you probably feel that only people who listen to your music are going to be at your site, the truth is that music industry people, who can help your career, are probably going to get their first look at your band from your site.
Make sure that you don't lose opportunities because you fail to add a little usability to your official site.
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Using Useability to Keep People at Your Site |
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