June 28: Don't Fight Web Conventions

When it comes to web design, try to stick with convention. That is, don't deviate too far from what is generally the standard practice on other websites. No matter how great your site is, cumulatively people spend more time on other people's websites.

Therefore, people learn to use and navigate sites based on their experience elsewhere. For that reason it makes sense to stick with what people are used to. If you do dare to try something new, make sure it is a definite improvement and easy to understand or your visitors will get frustrated.

Does your website follow standard practices?