Just when you thought it was safe to settle with your existing website and functionality, think again. We have pitched the need for a website since the inception of our company back in 2004 and over the years, we’ve continuously experienced first-hand how rapidly website design and functionality is evolving.
With smart phones taking eyes away from the traditional computer search/browsing/shopping methods and with Google becoming the new encyclopedia for information, it is no wonder website design changes so quickly. Search engine competition requires websites to have coding that allows them first to be found and then sets them up to deliver on an almost instant basis to keep from losing the visitor’s attention.
This truth will only become more prominent in 2016. If you want a website that is rich, cutting-edge and works to help you sell more produce, consider these trends for the coming year.
- Long Scroll
Websites loaded with dozens of pages with hidden content are out. Long scrolling websites where the most information you need know is right on the home page is IN. - Data Collection/Account Registration
Marketers will provide points of entry throughout websites giving you an option to “opt-in” to receiving more information from the brand beyond your visit. Learn more about how this works and how you can incorporate forms into your website here. - Hero Images
With social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat on the rise in 2016, websites will adapt to feature images that are telling and grab the visitor’s attention the second they reach the home page.
- Rich Animation
Telling your story has evolved from the written word to presenting information in a graphical way. From hover tools and loading bars to storytelling infographics with rich content behind them, the visitor will be lead to navigate websites with fun surprises along the way.
- Galleries and Slideshows
Websites will present multiple visuals and photos at a glance, giving the visitor the option to choose instantly where they go next.
- Background Videos
Popular websites like AirBNB have mastered the art of incorporating background videos into their website that are relatable and telling about the service being offered.
- Responsive Design
If you haven’t considered a new website update in the last two years, chances are your website is not currently responsive to the various devices that your customer is using to navigate your website. This trend will grow even hotter in 2016 and will weed out those that don’t and elevate the ones that do.
- Originality
With so many website templates being utilized to cut back on costs in 2016 the tide will turn giving the true designer an opportunity to create original pieces of art using website design to differentiate their brand from the next.
- Micro Experiences
Marketers will rule websites in 2016 as micro content leads to a personalized experience tailored to the specific needs of a particular audience. We’re most excited about following and adapting to this trend.
- Artificial Intelligence
Humanizing a brand is not a new concept, but in 2016, website visitors will be presented with personalities and conversational content that will lead them to believe they are dealing with a “real person” behind the brand.
No matter where you are in your marketing journey and planning for 2016, our team encourages you to take a look at your website and consider the trends on the table in the coming year. How do you stack up against your competition? Do you want to be found for the products and services that you sell? Do you want to make and keep a connection with the people consuming your products each hour of the day? If so, consider how your website might help you in achieving these goals. If you know you are in need of a refresher in 2016, feel free to contact us to learn more about our customizable website services.
