The 5 second rule of webdesign

First impressions are lasting. What messages is your site delivering and what is being retained in those crucial moments?

Captivating your web audience and making that first crucial impression is The most important factor when a user has the option to hit their back button and visit your competition. Each page should have a clear purpose and every page should deliver an experience that is memorable.

When a user is given time to peruse your site and make a series of investigative clicks you lose an important aspect of usability design. Allowing them time to figure out what you are delivering is a risk most companies should not take if they want to ensure success. That first impression made in the first 5 seconds could be a key that unlocks doors to untold riches.

If you can deliver immediate clarity on every page then you are well on your way to a providing an experience that will help rather than hinder your site’s conversion rates and increase usability in the process.

Much has been written about usability and how it relates to the concept of the 5 second rule. Here is a link to a great online tool that illustrates very clearly the 5 second rule in action.