Let’s not forget the kitsch factor in Web site design: some people like sites that are quirky and obviously homegrown. So if you don’t have the budget for cutting-edge design, try going in a different direction.
Add personality: Give your site a voice. So you’re a small company — be that. One of my business associates recently told me that a lot of new clients tell them, “I saw your photo on the Web site.” (Not, I saw the site — it’s a really bad site, from a design standpoint — but somehow, the photo of him and his wife as the company owners resonates with people.)
Keep the message: Anti-design is fine. Poor usability is much more dangerous — if your site doesn’t communicate something useful (such as your hours, or a map, or contact info), you’re in bad shape. What are you good at? Make sure that comes through loud and clear.
Keep it simple: If you can’t do high design, don’t overload on content, or little widgets, or lots of pages with little of value on each one.
Good luck. And when you’re ready to upgrade to high design, I’ll be here, waiting…
