Web design relies on technology, and since technology evolves, why not web design? Over time, we’ve seen technology platforms come into existence. These technology platforms provide access to tool sets and applications for crafting, publishing, and running content or online businesses, respectively.
As technology advances, computing platforms, CMS, APIs, and web platforms also evolve to meet present-day business needs. That’s why we see web design trends, some of which are quick to fade away. The word trend can refer to a shift in something during a given period. We highly witness trends in the fashion world, where some apparel comes and drives millions crazy, only to leave a trail.
In a field that relies on technology like web design, it’s common to encounter trends that web designers prefer for specific reasons and ditch the rest. We must admit that web design trends vary, and some wouldn’t be ideal for a focused online business. On the other hand, overreliance on web design trends may render a web designer’s work unprofessional. Before embracing any web design trend, here are a few things to look into;
- Project Type
Web design and development projects vary in size, the scale of needs, and technologies. If you’re working on a long-term project, I mean a project that is meant to serve a client or business for decades, it’s best not to follow trends, most especially untechnical web design trends. Some website trends serve businesses to the core, such as mobile-first design and responsive web design. When we talk about a mobile-first design approach, crafting sites with special consideration for mobile users is necessary. Currently, over 54% of global website traffic comes from mobile devices. Therefore, leveraging a trend that impacts business goals and customer experiences positively like this advisable.
A responsive web design approach is attributed to a range of benefits that stretch from functionality to user experience. This approach requires crafting a single webpage and rendering it fit for all user devices. The trend emerged a decade ago and has become an ever-present concept for smart web design solutions.
Note: Not all web design concepts can be ignored, for example, AWD ‘Adaptive Web Design’. Although currently not a top-choice, adaptive web design trend has high credibility. Its use declined simply because better choices like RWD ‘Responsive Web Design’ emerged.
- Experimental Purposes OR?
If a client is ready to explore a trend for a given period of time, then that’s another reason to follow trends. However, as a designer and developer, you should effectively communicate the bad and the good in a web design style. The other facet of the coin would be a redesign.
Some redesigns may adopt trends to render them more engaging and purposeful. However, not every business would benefit from it. Established e-businesses need to keep a professional look. Things like a homepage must be sleek and smart to provide the best experience. With that, pop-ups and videos shouldn’t be the main focus.
- Industry Dynamics
Market forces influence a range of business decisions, but let’s not forget how expensive certain choices may cost. Instead of hopping on a trend, a web designer must assess the returns of a trend and whether it’s sustainable. A business website is quite a huge investment to focus on short-term blinks that may require adopting better trends in the future.
Businesses that need conversions, i.e. sales and marketing, can adopt web design trends like a chatbot widget for better interaction. By the way, such software is sustainable and never goes out of trend. All in all, a web designer must follow a trend that can serve a business in the long run but not for a given period.
A trend like Interesting Scroll Pattern may appear catchy, but it isn’t easy to manage and control across devices. A shift like this is interesting to use but isn’t sustainable. Also, specific trends only diminish the credibility of a site.
Any web design trend that preps your site for conversions, better ROI, and customer engagement through content is ideal for long-term projects .
Instances to Leverage Web Design Trends
When should a web designer follow Trends?
Not many professional designers would love to follow trends, but that’s possible in the following cases.
No Provisional Layout
Some clients are blank about web design or have a few hints. If a client has no reference design for the project, a web designer may consider following a trend.
Still, should a web designer follow trends just because he wants to try it out? Or offer solutions that meet customer needs? These are all questions to ponder over.
Customer-centred Businesses
Such businesses focus on customer behaviours to serve them better; generally, they are people-oriented. Brands that aim at acquiring more customers tend to be more interested in web design trends that increase interactions, create meaningful experiences, and downsize competition. They are even fond of trial and error projects.
However, a customer-centric web design trend must be fit for use, search engine friendly and non-disruptive.
Where Do Trends Fall in the Web Design?
Web design is only a part of crafting a website. To accomplish the entire task, web developers, graphic designers, and quality analysts also have a role to play. However, graphic designers can rely on web design trends to keep the site up-to-date.
Watch out for trends, and only adopt those that matter or renders a graphic designer innovative and competent for every task.
We would say that web design evolves, and as long as technology advances, we are meant to see better web design techniques that may be mistaken for trends. One may call RWD a trend, but on the other hand, it’s an innovation that makes web designs better.
So it’s all about what one calls a trend in the web design industry.
Winding Up
Something only becomes a trend when users welcome and adapt to it. What remains constant is that trends always fade. So, what should a web designer do in the face of web design trends? We’ve seen web design trends like interesting scroll patterns, overlapping design, and super minimal aesthetics evade the design industry and vanish within a year.
If it’s a design technique or element that can better serve your online business and audience, then that’s a way to go. Keep an eye on the market trends, but only adopt those that matter to your clients and career.
If you require professional web design services and better insights for your project, 皇冠体育官方手机下载 is your pathway to the most innovative and business-centred web design solutions. Our web designers will let you explore beyond your design box for superior design solutions.