You’re not the only one feeling like your website should be doing better while it isn’t. Too many businesses get stuck because of outdated or misleading ideas about what good design looks like.
Maybe it’s because of a trend, a misconception you’ve heard one too many times, or simply the wrong advice. Whatever the case, these myths are holding you back from creating a website that truly works for your business. The truth is that web design is always evolving, and what worked yesterday might not cut it today.
In this article, we’re going to debunk six common website design myths that could be keeping your business from reaching its full potential online. For each myth, we’ll show you how to avoid falling into these traps and what to do instead, complete with real examples to back it up.
If you’re a designer or marketer looking to fine-tune your website’s performance, this guide will help you make smarter decisions that actually move the needle.
Myth #1: Complex Web Design Makes You Look Edgy
Flashy animations, intricate layouts, and cutting-edge features are often touted as must-haves for a modern website. But here’s the reality: complexity often backfires, confusing visitors and slowing down your site.
The antidote is quite simple – a clean, straightforward design with stellar UX is your secret weapon. It’s easy to navigate, quick to load, and gets your message across without the clutter.
This approach is both user-friendly and business-smart. It reduces bounce rates, improves conversions, and makes your site more accessible to a wider audience.
To nail simplicity, focus on these key areas:
- Streamline your navigation.
- Use white space effectively.
- Stick to a clear hierarchy of information.
- Choose a limited, cohesive color palette.
- Opt for readable fonts.
Need proof? Look no further than Smash.vc, an investment firm for small businesses and startups.
Their homepage is a masterclass in minimalism. Instead of overwhelming visitors with a data dump, they’ve opted for a clean, focused design. It guides users effortlessly to the most crucial information and prompts them to explore deeper when they’re ready.
Source: smash.vc
The result is a website that not only looks sharp but also converts. Visitors quickly grasp what Smash.vc offers and can easily find more details about their services.
It’s a perfect example of how simplicity can be your most powerful design tool, especially in fields where trust and clarity are paramount.
Myth #2: It’s Okay to Prioritize Aesthetics over Functionality
We’ve all seen those jaw-dropping websites that look like digital art galleries. They’re gorgeous but often a nightmare to use. This myth pushes the idea that a pretty site is always a good site. In reality, prioritizing looks over usability can frustrate visitors and tank your conversions.
The fix is seeking balance. Blend aesthetics with functionality to create a site that’s both beautiful and practical.
This approach keeps users engaged and helps them find what they need without hassle.
To strike the right balance:
- Start with user goals, not design trends.
- Use intuitive navigation patterns.
- Ensure fast loading times.
- Make buttons and links clearly clickable.
- Test your design with real users.
Let’s look at Startup Resources, a repository of startup tools, for inspiration.
They could’ve gone all out with fancy designs and catchy animations. Instead, they zeroed in on what their audience really wants: quick access to useful tools.
This site is all about functional design. It presents resource categories in a clean, straightforward layout. The newsletter signup is prominent but not intrusive. Navigation is a breeze, letting users find tools without frustration.
Yet, it’s not bland at all – the design is visually pleasing and on-brand.
Source: startupresources.io
This way, visitors get what they came for without wading through unnecessary frills. This is proof that a site can be both good-looking and highly usable, serving its purpose while still being easy on the eyes.
Myth #3: Focus on Selling
“Always be closing” might work in some sales circles, but it’s a recipe for disaster in web design. This myth pushes for aggressive selling tactics on every page, turning your site into a digital used car lot. The result is overwhelmed visitors who feel more like targets than valued customers.
The antidote is to educate first and sell second. Provide helpful content and resources that your audience actually wants. It’s proven that consumers are 131% more likely to buy after engaging with educational content. So, by helping your visitors, you’re actually boosting your bottom line.
This works because it builds trust, establishes your expertise, and creates a connection with your audience. People are more likely to buy from brands they see as helpful authorities in their field.
To nail this strategy:
- Create a resource center or blog with valuable insights.
- Offer free tools or calculators related to your industry, such as a CPM calculator.
- Develop how-to guides and tutorials.
- Share case studies and success stories.
- Use your expertise to answer common questions.
Take QuickBooks, an accounting and payroll platform, as an example. Sure, they want to sell their software, but they don’t stop there.
Their site is packed with helpful content – articles, guides, and tips that genuinely assist their target audience, whether they’re using QuickBooks or not.
Source: quickbooks.intuit.com
This approach attracts potential customers but keeps existing ones coming back for more. It’s a perfect example of how education can be your most powerful sales tool.
Myth #4: You’ll Do Just Fine with Stock Photography
Stock photos are cheap, easy, and everywhere. It’s tempting to think they’ll do the job for your website. But they’re also generic, overused, and often feel fake. Relying on stock imagery can make your brand look unoriginal and disconnected from your actual offers.
Invest in custom, high-quality photos of your products or services. It might seem like extra work, but the payoff is huge. Original imagery showcases what you actually offer, builds trust, and sets you apart from competitors.
Authentic photos create a genuine connection with your audience. They show the real deal, not a polished fantasy. This transparency builds credibility and helps potential customers visualize themselves using your product or service.
To ace your photo strategy:
- Hire a professional photographer for key shots.
- Ensure photos accurately represent your offers.
- Include lifestyle images showing your products in use.
- Keep a consistent style across all imagery.
- Regularly update photos to keep content fresh.
A great example is SopranoVillas, a real estate agency specializing in Italian luxury villa rentals.
Their website opens with a stunning header image featuring one of their actual properties. It would be disastrous for their reputation to use generic luxury home photos. Instead, they showcase the real villas in their catalog.
Source: sopranovillas.com
This approach immediately gives visitors a taste of what the brand truly offers. It’s a perfect example of how real photos can elevate your brand and set accurate expectations for your customers.
Myth #5: Hiding Support Options Will Encourage Visitors to Figure It Out on Their Own
Some businesses think hiding support options encourages self-service and saves resources. They bury contact info deep in their site, hoping visitors will figure things out on their own. This approach often leads to frustrated customers and lost sales.
The fix is to make help readily available at every step. In reality, 83% of online shoppers need immediate assistance to complete their purchase. So, by holding back on help, you might be sabotaging your own sales.
Accessible support builds confidence, reduces friction, and shows you value your customers’ time. It can be the difference between a sale and an abandoned cart.
To always be there for your audience:
- Add a floating chat icon on all pages.
- Include a prominently displayed support phone number.
- Offer context-specific help buttons throughout the user journey.
- Create an easy-to-find FAQ section.
- Implement a callback request feature.
Australian Business For Sale, a website for business listings, is inspiring in this regard.
On their landing page for selling businesses in Australia, alongside valuable information for visitors, there’s always a chat icon floating in the bottom right corner.
Need help with anything at all? One click, and you’re chatting with a representative who can clear things up.
Source: businessforsale.com.au
This is a prime example of how always-available help can enhance the user experience and drive business success.
Myth #6: Your Mobile Website Should Reflect Its Desktop Version
Some think a mobile site should be a mini clone of its desktop counterpart. But cramming a desktop design into a smartphone screen is like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. It leads to tiny text, impossible navigation, and frustrated users.
79% of consumers bail or switch devices when content doesn’t display well. That’s a lot of potential customers slipping through the cracks. Therefore, you must optimize your site for all devices, especially mobile.
Mobile optimization works because it respects how people actually use their devices. A smooth mobile experience keeps users engaged, improves SEO, and boosts conversions.
To get your website to look great on all devices:
- Use responsive design that adapts to screen size.
- Simplify navigation for touch interfaces.
- Prioritize content for mobile viewing.
- Optimize images and media for faster loading.
- Make buttons and links easily tappable.
Take VeloHelo, an online bike concept store, for inspiration.
They knew a desktop-like mobile site would be a disaster for their bike-loving customers. So, they’ve created a mobile experience that’s as smooth as a well-oiled chain.
On mobile, VeloHelo’s site transforms beautifully. The navigation is simplified, the layout is rearranged for easy reading, and everything’s perfectly tappable. Product images shine, text is crisp, and the checkout process is a breeze.
Source: velohelo.com
This approach ensures that whether you’re browsing bikes on your couch or checking specs at a cafe, the experience is consistently great. It shows how smart mobile optimization can keep customers rolling through your site, no matter their device.
Final Thoughts
Each of the tactics we’ve explored is a step toward a more effective, user-friendly site. But here’s the real question: which of these myths have been holding your business back?
Take a moment to look at your site with fresh eyes. What could you tweak to make it work harder for you?
The web is always evolving, and so should your approach to design. Take the next step and start making the changes that will push your business forward. The impact might be bigger than you think.
Cover Photo: depositphotos.com
