Design websites that people understand without having to think twice.
In a world where attention spans are limited and decisions are made in seconds, usability has become one of the most important factors in the success of any website or digital application. Steve Krug’s book “Don’t Make Me Think”, considered a classic of user-centered design, offers a series of practical principles for making websites more intuitive, functional and effective.
At ARGOsoft Group, we believe that design is not just aesthetics: it is a strategic experience. That’s why we share with you 10 key lessons from this book that you should apply if you want your website to really work.
1. “Don’t make me think”
The golden rule in the book: good design should be obvious, self-evident and self-explanatory. If the user has to stop and think about what to do or where to go, something is wrong.
Practical application: Use familiar icons, clear buttons and simple navigation.
2. Users don’t read, they scan
Instead of reading all the content, users scan for keywords, subtitles or visual elements that tell them what to do.
Practical application: Use clear headings, bullets, lists, and break up blocks of text.
3. User behavior is not rational, it is impulsive
Most people click on the first thing that seems appropriate, without analyzing all possible options.
Practical application: Make sure that the action paths (such as buy, register or contact) are well visible and accessible.
4. Navigation should be consistent
A clear and uniform navigation system allows the user to feel oriented within the site and not get lost.
Practical application: Use a fixed or always visible menu, and do not change its position between pages.
5. Use conventions, don’t reinvent them
Users are already used to certain structures (the logo in the upper left corner, the menu at the top, the cart on the right…).
Practical application: Take advantage of these conventions to facilitate use, instead of imposing new forms that require learning.
6. Less is more
Eliminating the unnecessary enhances the experience. Every extra word, image or button competes for attention.
Practical application: Write concise content. Ask yourself: does this really serve the purpose of this page?
7. Design should guide the eye
By using visual hierarchy, colors, sizes and spacing, you can direct the user’s attention to what really matters.
Practical application: Use prominent calls to action, differentiate headings and subheadings, and take advantage of white space.
8. User testing doesn’t have to be complicated
Steve Krug suggests that even with few users you can identify many usability problems. You don’t need expensive studies or large samples.
Practical application: Watch 3 to 5 real people navigate your site and listen to their questions. It’s more revealing than any theory.
9. Don’t expect perfection: launch, test, improve
Usability is not achieved in a single step. It is a process of continuous improvement.
Practical application: Launch your site with the essentials, measure user behavior, and adjust based on real data.
10. Users want to feel in control
Your site should allow the visitor to easily correct mistakes, know where they are, and go back without problems.
Practical application: Add breadcrumbs, avoid meaningless 404 errors and facilitate navigation between sections.
Conclusion
The book “Don’t Make Me Think” reminds us that simplicity is powerful. When a website is well designed, users don’t get lost, don’t get frustrated… and convert more easily.
At ARGOsoft Group, we apply these principles to create websites that not only look good, but deliver a fluid, intuitive, results-driven experience. Because when you don’t have to make the user think… everything flows better.
Want to improve the usability of your website?
Write us at info@argosoftgroup.com or by WhatsApp at (503) 6162-2833 | (503) 6136-0623
Digital Technology Consultant | Digital Project Manager | Consulting and Training | Gamification and Advergaming project design.
He has 16 years of experience in marketing, administration, and project management for the design and development of websites, custom web systems, mobile apps, advergaming, and gamification. Course facilitator and university professor, in subjects, focused on web design and development.