What Makes A Website Happy Homepages

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What Makes A Website Happy Homepages
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• We are starting a new series on What Makes A
  Website. Over the next few weeks, well explore
  the elements that are must-haves on your website
  and the dos (and donts) to make it great.
• An obvious first place to start the Homepage. 
  The first page of your website that everyone sees
  when they land on your URL.  It is, in essence, a
  dashboard for visitors to get to know your
  business at first glance.  The window to your
  companys soul.  The warm welcome everyone will
  receive.

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• So, what makes a happy homepage?  Here are some
  tips
• When people land on your website, they should
  immediately be able to figure out who you are and
  what you do
• Branding  Your logo, company name, and
  slogan/tagline (if applicable)  should be
  prominently placed.  At the top of your site is
  usually best and images/text not too big or too
  small. Colors should match and not be too
  overbearing.
• Images - In general, most people are visual in
  nature.  Use images or stock photos to illustrate
  what your business does.  Show as well as tell.

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• Once someone arrives at your page, what is it you
  want them to do? What do you want them to know?
• Navigation - It should be very easy for visitors
  to move about your site and gain access to the
  information they want.  Not only that, you should
  also use the navigation to direct them to the
  information you want them to have.  Basic
  navigation to website pages should be clear and
  obvious with menu bars or tabs near the top of
  the page.  Other call-to-action items should be
  well placed to get attention but not overshadow
  main content.
• Search - While you hope your navigation will be
  enough, sometimes its not.  Youll want to have
  a  way to search your site for any information. 
  A simple search box on the page, above the fold,
  is a simple solution.
• Content and Language - The idea is to communicate
  your companys objectives, make a great
  impression, and provide a great user experience. 
  The design and imagery of your site draws them in
  and make them want to read more.  Now, what they
  read should be dynamic.  Give just enough to
  convey your business message but also leave them
  wanting more.  Give them the reason to click that
  Contact Us or Request a Demo  or  Learn
  More button.
• Is your homepage happy?  Let us know!

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• Your Design Online is an interactive development
  company, specializing in custom website design
  and development, search engine optimization and
  marketing, and email marketing.
• http//www.yourdesignonline.com/