The importance of design can never be underestimated. And this importance of design is amplified multiple times when it comes to web design. Before we go ahead let's ponder over what is design and why it is so important.The dictionary defines design as "a basic scheme or pattern that affects and controls function or development", and herein lies its importance. In simple words, it's a manifestation of usability and appearance. If one can achieve a perfect balance between usability and appearance, one achieves the perfect design. The design is important because it defines the user experience. When everything depends on how a product is perceived and used, the design of the product becomes the most crucial aspect after functionality.

What Makes Good Web Design?

A well-crafted web design will influence the user's initial perception of the website's value and encourage them to explore the website further. A good web design facilitates whatever the website is intended to achieve. It's of great importance that your website design addresses the needs of your customers both in terms of usability and accessibility, and information that helps decision-making. The impression that your design makes on a visitor's mind defines his or her actions on your website.A good web design doesn't just mean having an attractive layout -- although an attractive, non-intrusive layout doesn't harm -- it means the following too:

• The navigation is user-friendly
• The information is relevant and well-structured
• The shopping cart is fully secure
• There are no needless distractions
• All the pages load fast
• All the pages are search engine friendly
• The interface is pleasing and intuitive
• Your visitors can easily contact you

Always remember that the importance of web design lies in its ability to boost your business, not create hurdles.

So What Happens if You Attach No Importance to Design?

Although it is a well-known cliche, but first impression IS the last impression when it comes to your website design. Give your visitors a bad design and rest assured they'll not come back. It's apparent that no importance is given to good web design when

• The website doesn't have a clearly defined navigation scheme
• The important pages are not easily visible or accessible
• The layout is not consistent
• The website is full of needlessly heavy images and animations and it takes ages to load the pages
• There is no contact information available on your website

When you don't give importance to your website sends a strong message to your visitors that you are not serious about your business and you should not be trusted with their money.