Why Minimalist Web Design May Offer More

Over the years the Internet has seen much advancement in available technologies. Widespread broadband availability has allowed for graphic intensive sites as well as rich media such as streaming videos. The wide range of options can make it difficult for web designers, developers and administrators to settle on one approach. It’s no surprise that numerous websites have become large, unwieldy collections of content, images, technologies and add-ons. While these features can have a positive impact when used effectively there are some notable advantages for using a minimalist design for your site.

Simpler Navigation
Complex sites require complex navigation which increases the chance the users won’t be able to find what they are looking for. While it is tempting to provide all relevant information and allow the users to pick and chose what they need, many users simply won’t have the patience to visit numerous pages. While the popular three click rule has long since been disproven as an exact metric, the overall concept still remains. Users are only satisfied when they can find what they are looking for with minimal time and effort. A minimalist approach provides only what visitors need in concise, easy to navigate manner.

Straight Forward Message and Call to Action
Profitable sites have one trait in common; they are able to convince their visitors to perform an action. Based on the goals of the site this action could include purchasing an item, providing contact information or signing up for a newsletter, just to name a few. If this call to action is difficult to understand or buried under excess content there’s a good chance your users will pass it by, wreaking havoc on your bottom line. A minimalist design removes excess clutter making it clear as to what actions should be taken.

Less Administration
Since minimalist sites involve less content and fewer technologies the administration of these sites requires less effort. This can prevent downtime and the need for technical staff members, both of which can be costly. With each new technology or add-on you employ you increase the complexity as well as the likelihood that something will fail. Seemingly stable features can present unexpected problems when layered. A minimalist approach reduces the cost of site management while ensuring greater uptime.