Common Template Mistakes

By: Nicole Shalit

Using web site templates right out of the box is a very common mistake new web designer’s make. One of the cool things about the web is that it’s so visual. Using a web site design template can save any new web developer a lot of time and effort. But, you can get into trouble if you don’t pay attention.

Color, layout, and graphics are the key elements in any template. Web sites should be designed around the subject matter, ease of use, and accomplish any goals or end result. A lot of new web designers get lost in the visual effects, which can have negative effects on user friendliness and search engine optimization.

Look at some of the most popular web sites, the element is simplicity and ease of navigation. There are few dancing, flash intros, or big special effects. And almost everyone has text navigation for the most part. They may have some very well designed graphics and a few design elements but keep it simple for the user.

Web sites should be user friendly and easy navigation, and adhere to the two-click rule. This is a simple rule that implies any user should be able to find what they want on any given web site in two clicks. With the short attention span and impatient attitude of most surfers, you need to give them what they want fast. You normally only have about 5 seconds to grab their attention.

I use templates a lot to save time and effort on a new design. Some I’ve developed myself, some I’ve bought that give me at least a 70% solution. They may have some graphics that go with my subject matter and/or some colors and layout that suit my purpose for the web site. But they also may be missing some key elements.

Most web site templates have great visual effects and good color combinations. But many lack several important elements for both users and our friends the search engines. Here’s a list of common mistakes I see all the time when a web designer uses a web site template.

Different menus might be fun, but sometimes confuse the user and are invisible to the search engine bots. These are two good reasons to use a text menu somewhere that show all necessary navigation links.

Site maps are important as well. Both users and search engines can see a snapshot of everything on your web site and get to it quickly. This will improve your chances to get indexed quickly and gives the user that two click ability.

The fold position is where the bottom of the monitor breaks off the view of the page. All important information should be above the line, which makes it easier for the readers as they don’t have to scroll. Any navigation, special links, attention getters, or critical information should always display above the fold line.