Launching a new website is an exciting step for any business, especially if you’re growing your brand here in Berkshire. But while it’s tempting to jump straight into the design, a few common mistakes can lead to wasted time, money, and missed opportunities. Here are five key website design mistakes to avoid — and how to get it right the first time.

1. Not Defining Your Goals

Before you choose a layout or write a word of content, be clear on what your website needs to achieve. Are you trying to generate leads, sell products, or simply build credibility? Without clear goals, your website may look nice but fail to deliver results.

2. Prioritising Looks Over Functionality

A beautiful website is great — but if users can’t find what they need quickly, they’ll leave. Prioritise user experience (UX) by making navigation intuitive, keeping load times fast, and ensuring your site works well on mobile. In Berkshire’s competitive market, function matters just as much as form.

3. Ignoring SEO from the Start

Search engine optimisation isn’t something you bolt on later. If your new website isn’t structured with SEO in mind — from headings and image tags to keyword-rich copy — you’re missing out on organic traffic. A professional web designer will consider this from day one.

4. Using Generic Templates Without Customisation

DIY website builders offer tempting templates, but many businesses in Berkshire fall into the trap of launching a cookie-cutter site that looks just like everyone else’s. Your website should reflect your unique brand — not blend into the crowd.

5. Forgetting About Ongoing Maintenance

A website isn’t a one-and-done project. From plugin updates to security patches and content refreshes, ongoing maintenance is essential. Without it, your site can become slow, insecure, or outdated — all of which can turn potential customers away.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re building a site yourself or working with a designer, avoiding these mistakes can save you time, money, and frustration. For businesses in Berkshire, investing in a professionally built, well-planned website is one of the smartest moves you can make.

Thinking about launching a new website? Let’s talk about how to get it right from the start.