A professionally designed website is essential for any modern business, but custom design work can carry a shocking price tag. This leads many startups and SMBs to seek budget web design services boasting rock-bottom rates.
However, in an effort to cut costs, cheap web designers often overlook core user experience (UX) principles that determine how effectively a website connects with visitors. These UX mistakes ultimately sabotage the performance of budget sites.
Here are common UX pitfalls to avoid that can tank your cheap website:
Cluttered, Overcrowded Pages
Cheap web designers often cram as much content as possible onto pages to avoid building additional pages. But overloaded, cluttered layouts overwhelm users, making it hard to focus and scan for relevant information. Apply "less is more" minimalism.
Difficult Navigation
On a budget site, navigation menus are an afterthought. But confusing, overly complex menus frustrate users, leading to dead ends. Apply UX best practices like clear labeling, simplification, and consistent placement. Don't rely on laggy dropdowns.
Tiny, Unreadable Text
Some cheap web designers use minuscule font sizes to pack in more content per page. But strained reading hurts engagement. Use readable font sizes, and ample line spacing, and avoid walls of dense text. Mobile visitors will especially appreciate the larger text.
Ignoring Scannability
Online readers skim and scan vs. reading word for word. Cheap web designers ignore scannability best practices like section headings, short paragraphs, bullet points, bold text, and highlighting. The lack of formatting makes pages harder to digest.
No Visual Hierarchy
Every page should have a clear visual hierarchy for the eye to follow. However cheap web designers often present content equally without emphasis. Use layout, color, size, spacing, and other elements to direct attention to what matters most.
Weak Calls-to-Action
Calls-to-action are one of the most important UX elements, yet cheap web designers relegate them to inconspicuous placements with plain designs. CTAs should stand out and clearly state their purpose. Don't hide your money button!
Mobile Afterthought
With mobile usage now dominant, budget sites must be fully functional on smartphones. However cheap web designers may ignore responsive design and tap targets. Test mobile UX thoroughly and optimize where needed.
Ignoring Accessibility
To ensure access for all users, adhere to accessibility guidelines around color contrast, alt text, headings structure, keyboard support, and screen reader capability. But most cheap web designers overlook these best practices.
Unfocused Content
Quality content is scarce on cheap websites, often replaced by blocks of rambling text. Practice good editorial discipline. Create focused, scannable content around specific user-centric topics. Help readers quickly grasp relevance.
No Personality or Branding
While personality and branding contribute tremendously to the user experience, budget sites look generic. Weave in charm and warmth through writing, imagery and design that expresses your brand identity. Don't be vapid.
Slow Page Speeds
Quick-loading pages enhance user experience while slow loads drive visitors away. But cheap web designers ignore optimizing images, code, etc. Measure speed with online tools and set minimum standards.
In summary, skimping on UX hurts your ability to engage and convert site visitors, no matter what your budget constraints. Maintain focus on making pages easy to use, scan, navigate, and read above all else. UX refinements often cost only extra time, not money. Even cheap web design can deliver good UX.
