DeMeyere Design

Lessons learned over 30 years

Content first

Embrace a “content first, design last” philosophy to ensure a website that is both functional and visually appealing. Prioritize the creation and organization of content before beginning the design process. This ensures that the core message is clear and effectively communicated. By structuring content logically, a seamless user experience is created where information is easily accessible. Once the content is properly organized, focus on designing an interface that enhances and complements it. This approach guarantees that design serves the content, resulting in a website that works effectively for both you and your audience.

Use simple technologies and reduce dependencies

Adopt a strategy of using simple technologies and reducing dependencies to build a robust and maintainable website. Opt for straightforward solutions that address your core needs without unnecessary complexity. This approach not only makes your website faster and more efficient but also easier to manage and update. By minimizing reliance on third-party plugins and frameworks, you reduce potential points of failure and security vulnerabilities. Furthermore, simple technologies ensure better compatibility across different devices and platforms, providing a consistent user experience. Emphasizing simplicity and reducing dependencies leads to a more resilient, future-proof website that can adapt to changing needs with minimal disruption.

Prioritize User Experience (UX)

Prioritize user experience (UX) design to ensure your website meets the needs and expectations of your audience. Focus on creating intuitive navigation, clear calls to action, and responsive design that works seamlessly across all devices. By putting the user at the center of the design process, you can create a site that is not only visually appealing but also highly functional and easy to use. This leads to higher user satisfaction, increased engagement, and better overall performance of your website. Investing in UX design is essential for creating a website that provides value and fosters long-term relationships with your visitors.

Mobile first

Guarantee mobile optimization to cater to the growing number of users accessing websites via mobile devices, which now accounts for more than half of all web traffic. Implement responsive design principles that adjust the layout and functionality of your site to provide an optimal viewing experience on screens of all sizes. This includes ensuring fast load times, easy navigation, and touch-friendly interfaces. Mobile optimization is crucial for improving search engine rankings, increasing user engagement, and reducing bounce rates. By prioritizing mobile-friendly design, you ensure that your website remains accessible and effective for all users, regardless of the device they are using.

Continuous improvement

Acknowledge the necessity of continuous improvement and adaptation in web design. The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and what works today may not be effective tomorrow. Technologies, user behaviors, and industry standards change rapidly, making it crucial to regularly update and refine your website. A seven-year-old website is likely to face performance, security, and usability issues. By embracing a mindset of ongoing evaluation and enhancement, you can ensure your website remains relevant, secure, and efficient. Regular updates and iterative improvements are key to maintaining a high-performing website that meets the changing needs of your audience.