How to ensure consistency in web designing?

Consistency is preferred by consumers across the world as it helps them in navigating through the site and finding exactly what they needed. Websites which are consistent enhance the user experiences increasing the return rate on the websites. Saad Raja discusses the following consistency points in web designing.

1) Designing as per user expectations

A vital part of a consistent site is its uniform layout. The majority of the users prefer to visit a site which looks similar whenever they see a page. It builds an association and makes it convenient for users to browse through.

2) Instinctive navigation

A good website should plan the route for its users. A site needs to be easy to navigate, and it must create easy-to-find connections between pages.

3) Consistent visual strategy

The visual design of a website is another component of a consistent site. The design and the central topic of the web site ought to be similar. The content and picture can vary; however, the design should be the same. This similar type of the website helps the users to get familiar with it and positively reinforces them to re-visit the site.

4) Consistent identity

The identity of a web site comprises the colours, icons and typography. These are the components used in the designing of a web site. All of these should be based on the nature of the site. Once all of these components are finalized; the designer has to maintain consistency. Minor changes which result in the betterment of the site are appreciated, but the designer should avoid obvious changes. The constant identity of a website creates its unique image for its users and simultaneously has a massive impact on them.

Saad Raja also discussed "5 tips to enhance the user experience on your website" in his blog.