Design trends are changing constantly and it can be beneficial to have a contemporary website that follows the latest developments, just as long as the aspects of the design are relevant to your target audience.
2013 may be noted as the year of ‘flat’ design, and this is likely to continue into 2014. Many individuals and businesses have replaced gradients and drop shadows from their website’s logos, text and icons on their website; instead opting for simple flat designs to keep up with the latest styles.
There have been notable improvements to a wide range of digital devices like smartphones over the last few years, especially when it comes to web browsing. Many websites now contain videos on their homepage, and loading times are quicker than they were previously, but again this approach should be thought through, always keeping your target audience’s needs in mind before making any significant website changes.
Long scrolling websites (also known as infinite, continuous or endless scrolling websites) are becoming more common, and 2014 is likely to see an increase in the number of websites using this feature to complement touch screen devices.
It must be said that design trends will always exist, yet one trend may be suitable for a distinct type of target audience than another, and this is why Freetimers emphasise just how important it is to consider your own audience’s needs before making impactful website design changes.