Think Less, Click More: Homepage Design Tips
Think Less, Click More: Homepage Design Tips
Creating an effective homepage is essential for any website. While it may not always be the first point of contact for visitors—especially with many entering through links from other pages—it remains the go-to destination when users want to learn more about your site.
Drawing inspiration from Steve Krug’s Don’t Make Me Think and our recent content planning session, we’ll explore key principles to help you design a homepage that’s both user-friendly and engaging.
First, what is the site about?
Your homepage should instantly answer this question. Visitors need to understand what your site offers without confusion. Is the title and logo clearly visible? Does your tagline explain your site’s purpose? You should also use images, videos, or other media to reinforce your message, helping visitors quickly grasp your site’s identity and offering.
Why should visitors spend time on the site?
Your homepage should communicate your site’s unique online value proposition (UVP). This is the distinct value your website provides, whether it’s exclusive content, innovative services, or unique user experiences. Make sure this value is highlighted clearly. Are you showcasing what makes your site different from others? Have you made it easy for visitors to see why your site is worth exploring over competing options?
What does the site offer?
It’s crucial to make it easy for visitors to understand what your site offers. Start by ensuring your main navigation menu is easy to find and use, with clear links to the key sections of your site. A search bar is also helpful for users who prefer to search directly for what they need. Are you using other elements to further clarify your site’s structure?
Highlighting important or timely content—like new posts, promotions, featured products, or the most popular items (e.g., best-selling products or most-viewed blog posts)—can guide users to what matters most.
What actions can users take?
Websites aren’t just for consuming content—they often offer functionality, and that functionality should be clear. Visitors should instantly know what actions they can take. Can they make a purchase, sign up for a newsletter, or interact with a feature on your site? Ensure your call-to-action buttons stand out and direct users to the key actions you want them to take.
Where Should Users Start?
Prioritising user experience (UX) should be at the forefront of your homepage design. Visitors should immediately know what action to take when they land on your site. Are your calls to action (CTA) buttons prominent and easy to identify? Do they clearly indicate the next step—whether it’s making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or exploring content?
Beyond this, ensure your homepage is intuitive, clean, and easy to navigate. Is it optimised for mobile devices, ensuring it looks great on any screen size? Also, consider accessibility for all users—are you using clear headings, alt text for images, and ensuring good colour contrast? The goal is to guide visitors effortlessly toward the next step, all while providing a seamless, enjoyable experience.
Dr Eduardo Rivera, a faculty member at MIUC since 2016, holds a PhD in Computer Science from the Universidad de Málaga. He specialises in modelling and has extensive experience in business process modelling for the TV and banking industries. Dr Rivera teaches modules in Web Design, Data Science, and Employability Skills, among others, and is dedicated to enhancing the teaching and learning experience through his background in Life Coaching and Developmental Behavioural Modelling.
Eduardo Rivera
