Web site design basics

Business owners are always asking me, "What should I have in my web site?" I always say, "Keep it simple." Stay away from Flash animations and fancy menus. Do not confuse your visitors. The best bet is a professional design that achieves a goal. This goal might be selling products. Usually, a web site is simply there to make your phone ring and your inbox fill up, as well as to spread the word about your business. Your web site should make a visitor feel comfortable enough to purchase from you or at least contact you. With this is mind, design your web site. Make it easy for visitors to find your phone number, email address, contact form, etc. When in doubt, find web sites for other successful businesses and model your site after theirs.