Archive translation: this article reflects earlier guidance and examples. References, features and historical claims may be outdated.
People often buy familiar products because their parents, grandparents or earlier generations used them. Familiarity builds confidence even when another brand might be better. Online visitors similarly appreciate an orderly website that makes products easy to view. They want simplicity.
You may want a unique, sophisticated and attractive website. But if visitors need too long to understand a complex layout, they may close it and never return. Keep the website simple to attract and retain people.
Simple means easy to use
The original article compares MySpace, whose pages users could customise extensively, with Facebook’s initially plainer layout. It describes a shift towards Facebook because its pages were simpler and tidier, and users became less interested in decorating their profiles. The comparison reflects the period in which the source was written.
Simple means comfortable to view
Simple does not mean boring. A straightforward design can make visitors comfortable and confident enough to explore and return. That benefits the website.
Simple means focused
Define what you need and begin working towards a focused website. This can save time, money and effort while creating something users appreciate.
Refresh the design. The original article recommends moving away from cartoons and heavy Flash examples, towards an organised, easy-to-use, tidy and secure website. A simple design can inspire confidence. Try it and evaluate the result. Good luck.
Original guide illustrations
