As
web consumers become more sophisticated, they're demanding more and
tolerating less from the websites they frequent. A national survey of
consumer pet peeves about commercial websites found that more than 70
percent of consumers say they are unlikely to purchase from, or even return
to, a site after encountering pop-up ads, "register for more
information" log-on pages that block access to promised content, or
extra software installation requirements for viewing the site. Other peeves:
dead links, confusing navigation, slow-loading pages, ineffective
site-search tools, moving text and poor appearance.
Today,
many companies are improving their websites, with the main goal in mind to
offer their customers information, links and services that can help them,
not annoy them. Consider the following tips for a customer friendly website:
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1.
Avoid extraneous bells and whistles that slow users down.
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2.
Keep your navigation bar consistent and prominent on every page. Use
guides to show users both where they are and how they can go back.
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3.
Put a clear link from the home page that leads to your company's
contact information. Include your phone number, fax, postal mailing
address and e-mail.
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4.
Highlight company or industry news on your home page. Review your
site often to make sure everything is current and the links are still
functional.
