Website Design Trends to Watch for in 2018

In 2017, the worldwide website design trends rapidly evolved, creatively and technologically, improving user experience and increasing conversion rates. In this post, we are looking ahead at website design trends in 2018.

Get Ahead in 2018 With These Website Design Trends

Making Mobile a Priority

Let’s face it; users are utilizing their mobile devices to shop online more frequently. According to research, in 2015 it was found that 51 percent of users accessed the internet with a mobile device, surpassing 42 percent of desktop users.

When taking website design trends for mobile users into consideration, the minimalistic approach is optimal. Slimming everything down with collapsible/expandable content to make your website more economical in regards to its digital footprint is going to give your users a high-quality experience.

Web designers are going to want to place an emphasis on mobile-friendly websites, especially since Google plans to roll out its new Mobile First Index in 2018. Google plans to rank the mobile version of websites by crawling websites from a mobile browser view.

Increase in Micro-Interactions

Over the past year or so, users have seen a gradual shift in the way they can interact with websites due to an increase of micro-interactions (i.e. the flurry of hearts in Facebook live broadcast, Google Translate button, Tinder swipe button).

Micro-interactions allow websites to deliver results in real-time, which also increases website speed, making the user experience more pleasant. Micro-interactions are on the rise making websites more interesting, fun, and easier to use when integrated correctly.

Responsive Design

Responsive design should be the standard when it comes to building quality website designs and user experience. This concept has been in place for years but the importance of it determines the user experience by avoiding unnecessary zooming, resizing, or scrolling. This type of design benefits visitors by adapting to the specific device being used.

Website design trends for responsive design are expected to begin to integrate technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR). VR is already being experimented with in terms of VR web browsers and traditional browsers with VR capabilities. AR blurs the line between real and computer-generated content, like graphics, video, and sound. Carefully blended with a responsive design website, these enhancements offer a sensory stimulating experience to your visitors, giving them the best user experience.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have already been implemented into website design with instinctive and interactive technology such as chatbots that converse with visitors. Over time, individuals will increase communication with these conversational interfaces. Website designers typically aim to create an AI experience that seems as natural as possible. AI and machine learning will continue to progress in 2018.

Internet of Things

Another trend from 2017 that will carry over into 2018 is the Internet of Things (IoT). The IoT is a network of machines utilizing data-collecting technologies in order to enable communication and establish connectivity between front-end interface and devices like cameras, sensors and other smart devices. Website designers will use IoT technology to improve the user interface and UX.

Evolution of Trends

The evolution of these website design trends continues to advance and become more complex. Not only is it essential to hire a professional web design firm possessing the tools to create an optimized website suited to your company’s needs but it’s just smart business.

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About 4 Step Studio

4 Step Studio is an online marketing agency that specializes in website design and redesign, SEO, social media and more. Our team of experts focuses on helping small business get found online, while educating them on what will make them successful in the digital world. To learn more about what we can do for you, visit our website at www.4StepStudio.com