Five S.M.A.R.T. Bodhi & Co. website trends for 2022-2023

We get to see and work across a range of websites. From big to small, ultra complicated to paired back and simple. Often we see brands changing and updating their website based on user feedback and consumer insight, as well as being able to update things quickly to maximize results, whether that’s basket conversion, making online ordering simple or getting in touch quickly.

If you are considering refreshing or relaunching your website, we’ve put together our 5 top tips (SMART tips) for you to really consider as you map your new site.

Simplicity

Fewer words, calming colors, vivid imagery, and very clear calls to action are key. We recommend light-weight experiences that encourage the user to explore deeper, rather than putting everything up front on one page, keeping load times to a minimum whilst satisfying SEO needs, and having enough content to appear in a search. Simplified messaging that implores the visitor to want to learn more, rather than complex conversations that leave visitors with unnecessary information overload. Inspiring people with your message means drawing them in with visuals and interactions that surprise and help visitors engage with the words and messages.

Mindset

Generate positive thinking and goodwill. The themes of trust and growth are fostered with clear messaging and inspiring imagery. These trends are all about helping your visitors rather than directing them, which will help them think positively about your site and their relationship with you.

Audience

Appeal to the masses, make your website mobile-friendly and accessible to everyone including the blind, disabled, or the elderly. The 508 website accessibility guidelines highlight simple web design techniques that can be applied to make sure your website can be accessed easily by on-screen readers, making your website available to a larger audience.

Readability

The average Internet user skims through the content on a web page instead of reading each and every word from top to down. Users tend to scan through key parts of the page quickly to determine if it is relevant to their needs. It is important to format your content with this in mind. Correct use of headings, sub-headings, paragraphs, bullets or lists helps to break up the text, making it easy for readers to scan. A little bit of animation is also a nice touch, just don’t overdo it.

Trust

Everyone is re-engaging in the new world after 2020 and 2021, design trends are evolving to help people feel both safe and ready to engage. Websites are designed to give people space, reduce anxiety, and feel comfortable and safe. A website should help to build trust in your space, whether that’s your product, service, brand or organization. If trust isn’t there, conversion won’t be either.

If you have a website project or brief in mind and would like to chat this through with us, we’d love to hear from you. Get in touch with our team at dani@wearebodhiandco.com