10 Common Design Issues Small Businesses Make on Their Websites
Small businesses often build their own websites to save costs, but without professional guidance, they frequently fall into common design traps that can hurt their online presence. At Arthur Labs, we've identified the most prevalent website design issues that hold small businesses back from achieving their digital potential.
1. Oversized Navigation That Overshadows Functionality
One of the most common mistakes small businesses make is creating navigation menus that are too large and overwhelming. When navigation becomes the primary visual element of your site, it abstracts away from your actual functionality and core message:
- Visual Dominance: Oversized navigation can distract from your main content and calls to action
- Information Overload: Too many navigation items confuse visitors about where to focus
- Brand Impact: Your navigation should guide users, not become the focal point of your brand
- Better Alternatives: Use concise navigation with clear categorization and hierarchy
2. Directionless Content and Sections
Viewers naturally skim websites, making it crucial to guide their attention purposefully. Without proper directional design, your content becomes a scattered collection of information:
- Sequential Reading: Implement directional cues and fade transitions to guide readers through content
- Visual Hierarchy: Create clear content hierarchy that leads users through your narrative
- Transition Effects: Use subtle animations to draw attention to important elements
- Content Flow: Structure content to build upon previous sections logically
3. Poor Mobile Navigation Experience
Many small business websites fail to optimize navigation for mobile users. The traditional top-left hamburger menu is often inconvenient on mobile devices:
- Thumb Zone: Users must awkwardly reach to the top-left corner, breaking natural thumb movement
- Better Placement: Bottom navigation bars are more ergonomic for mobile users
- User Education: Brief fade-in tutorials can show users how to navigate efficiently
- Accessibility: Mobile-first navigation should prioritize ease of use over convention
4. Improper Title Tag Implementation
Content needs correctly corresponding tags with unique text for each page. Your website should work for you, not the other way around:
- Unique Titles: Each page needs distinctive title tags relevant to its specific content
- SEO Impact: Proper title tags significantly improve search engine visibility
- Dynamic Structure: Implement dynamic title generation for scalable content
- Search Presence: Properly structured titles boost your online search presence
5. Inadequate Content Spacing
Proper spacing is crucial for creating distinct sections with their own design and user experience:
- Section Separation: Give each content area adequate breathing room
- Visual Rhythm: Create a consistent spacing pattern throughout your site
- User Flow: Well-spaced content helps users navigate naturally through your site
- Brand Experience: Spacing reflects your company culture and attention to detail
6. Missing or Ineffective Call to Actions
Your website should serve as a conversion funnel, not just an information repository:
- Strategic Placement: Position CTAs where users naturally look for next steps
- Clear Messaging: Make your calls to action direct and action-oriented
- Prospect Journey: Design CTAs that align with different stages of customer awareness
- Conversion Optimization: Create a beautiful funnel that brings clients to you
7. Static, One-Size-Fits-All Pricing
Displaying fixed pricing often misses the opportunity to address individual customer needs:
- Dynamic Pricing: Implement pricing tools that adapt to customer requirements
- Expectation Management: Help prospects understand exactly what they'll receive
- Value Communication: Show how pricing aligns with specific customer needs
- Trust Building: Transparent, tailored pricing builds customer confidence
8. Inconsistent Brand Voice and Visual Identity
Small businesses often overlook the importance of maintaining consistent branding across their website:
- Visual Standards: Maintain consistent colors, fonts, and imagery throughout
- Voice Consistency: Keep your brand's tone and messaging aligned across all pages
- Trust Building: Consistent branding creates professional credibility
- Brand Recognition: Strong visual identity helps you stand out from competitors
9. Neglecting Page Load Speed and Performance
Slow-loading websites frustrate visitors and hurt search rankings:
- Image Optimization: Compress images without sacrificing quality
- Code Efficiency: Minimize unnecessary scripts and plugins
- Hosting Quality: Choose reliable hosting that supports your traffic needs
- User Retention: Fast loading times keep visitors engaged with your content
10. Lack of Regular Updates and Maintenance
Many small businesses launch websites and then neglect ongoing maintenance:
- Content Freshness: Regularly update content to remain relevant
- Security Updates: Keep software and plugins updated for security
- Performance Monitoring: Continuously monitor and optimize site performance
- Adaptation: Evolve your website as your business grows and changes
This post was created by the Arthur Labs team, a blockchain, application, and site development agency dedicated to helping businesses create effective digital experiences. By avoiding these common design pitfalls, small businesses can create websites that truly serve their customers and support their growth objectives.