When it comes to business management in the digital age, the core of a business’ overall success and reach lies in that business’ online presence (i.e. their website). Different companies in different industries handle their website management differently, but at the end of the day it is the same key principles that make it so successful. From the design of the website itself, to the impressive conversion rate optimization solutions that drive traffic and purchases from the site (and everything in between), there is something powerful about a strong website these days.

All businesses function to service consumers, to provide them with active solutions to problems. And across practically any industry, the importance of having a website is becoming exceedingly imperative – especially in recent years, as digitalisation has hit an all-time high. More than that, how the website is laid out is of crucial importance as well. Web design is a crucial component for any modern business, but why? What makes the website so fundamentally important to a business’ overall longevity and success?

Simplifying the consumer experience

Good web design is simple, classic, and effective. Designing the website to be easy to navigate and visually appealing is sometimes a fine line to walk, but it must be trod along regardless. The consumer wants to be able to find their own way through the site with ease, and without having to make guesses at how to get to where they need to go. Similarly, when the website design is chaotic and too full-on, consumers feel overwhelmed and often opt out, angling towards a simpler competitor. Web design 101: make the website easy to navigate.

The digital storefront window

Web design all starts with presentation (i.e. setting up the storefront window and maintaining it). Think of a website like the modernised version of a traditional storefront window. Consumers walk by, getting a feel of what the website – and the brand or business – is all about. Via the storefront window (i.e. the website), consumers gain an understanding of what kind of value they can expect from the business, how they can go about obtaining that value for themselves, and how the business presents itself at its most crucial point. A website today embodies all these ideals, and whisks them into a clear vision, drawing traffic and business to their brand in the process.

Round-the-clock virtual support

Another of the most important web design elements to remember is the support systems that are set up via the site. Having round-the-clock support systems like live chat functions, emails, or phone numbers for consumers to reach out when they need assistance is very much something to be valued, and a necessary web design element to prioritise. These days, the ecommerce landscape is becoming more competitive all the time. Having the right kinds of support systems readily accessible and available often means the difference between consumers appreciating the vision and staying for the quality, and becoming impatient trying to find their way and eventually clicking out of the site.