We mostly perceive the advancement of technology at face value from the screens of our desktop computers, laptops, and smartphones. Like any other industry, the world of web design is no different. Every year, web design trends come and go, leaving the door open for new developments. Some even manage to stay. As much as these trends trickle down from huge tech moguls, they are also inspired by cultural events, pop culture, current news, and even fashion. Your small business’ web presence ought to evolve alongside the latest and greatest in design. Exercise the following 6 design trends to “glow up” your business’ website and demand a second look from consumers on the Web:

No. 1: Utilize beautiful and unique images to describe your business. Larger-than-life photos that take up most (if not all) of the screen will leave more of an impression on website visitors while also letting your business share its story and ethos visually. High-res, detailed images should be used as backdrops and focal points to show consumers what your business is all about in just one glance. This replaces the need for blocks of text (which take time to read) and streamlines the overall appearance of your business’ web page.

No. 2: Use GIFs to stand out. Although it is critical to make sure GIFs and animations don’t weaken your website’s User Experience (UX), they have the ability to take your design to new heights if used properly. GIFs or animations showcase design know-how and have the ability to attract attention to your best-selling products, sales pop-ups, etc. Similarly, cinemagraphs engage users while adding sophistication to your site’s design. To increase your website’s depth and movement even further, consider implementing parallax scrolling. Incorporating 3D effects and motion into your website’s design will immerse visitors and customers in your brand’s world.

No. 3: Find ways to include 3D geometric shapes. A glimpse into the recent past of web design will reveal that digital trends are continually innovated and modernized. Until recently, the biggest inclination within the industry was to imitate real-life objects on digital interfaces, such as the original Notepad icon on the iPhone. This slowly transitioned to a newfangled style of minimal icons and color blocks with no reference to our real world. This was too abstract for users, so Google created Material design, turning our gaze to a new view of geometric shapes that includes shadows, motion, and boldness. With Google at the forefront of web design, you can expect to see more and more geometric shapes on the Web. In order for your business to keep up with the latest design principles and maximize website engagement, it will be crucial to discover your unique take on geometric shapes and find ways to integrate them into your design seamlessly.

No. 4: Establish your business as one-of-a-kind with flashy typography. Of course, don’t experiment with typography just for the sake of remaining current and up to date. Your business ought to first research fonts and typography and truly anchor what your brand is attempting to communicate with this tool. Once your knowledge reaches a comfortable level and your business’ message has been rooted, typography will give your brand a newfound creative license that should supplement your existing imagery. Again, this will give you the opportunity to show consumers your story rather than just tell it.

No. 5: Pop art is making a comeback. If your brand’s identity and target audience permits, definitely try to blend bright, popping colors or bold, saturated images into your website’s design. This style opts for visual shock value and will demand consumers’ attention before they even know your product/service. Contemplate whether this statement is right for your business and don’t be afraid to utilize this design tactic, especially when appealing to youth and artists.

No. 6: Personalize your Google Map’s appearance. By now, most of us see Google Maps on websites and are familiar with how to use them to navigate or share directions and locations, such as “dropping a pin.” One way your business can stay on the cutting edge is by customizing your site’s Google Map in line with its design. You can do this by highlighting specific areas and changing the colors. With more businesses tailoring their products, services, and marketing outreach to consumers’ needs and demands, it will also be important for your brand to individualize itself whenever possible to stand out. Every detail counts.

Written by Melissa McElhose, Blog Writer