I just love WEB DESIGN!!  Yes, new technology is fun, helping a small business launch their online storefront is fulfilling! But I must admit I get my buzz from the design – whether it is website or brochure design, I get excited about getting creative!

With the age of AI technology, we are seeing a huge leap in what we can do and what is accessible to everyone but specifically designers who work on websites, brochures, and other marketing materials.  With those changes, there can be more wonderful opportunities available to the small business owner who wants to upgrade their website to be more interactive, eye-catching, with unique visuals and that generates more business.

What this means for the small business owner and their website!

This is making this year way more exciting for me, but not so much for the average person.  As a small business owner, it is imperative that you understand just what it can mean for you and your new website and business.  More efficient and cost-effective technology costs should make having a professionally designed website way more achievable on a tight budget.

In 2024, you can expect to see websites brimming with complexity, color, textures, and patterns. Web designers are moving away from the minimalism of the past decade and embracing more immersive experiences with denser & richer graphics.  Minimalism has never been my favorite design aesthetic but the adage “less can be more” can be true when incredible imagery is to be used.  The advances in computing power and graphics cards (GPU) allow for swift loading of intricate graphics and videos, enhancing user engagement when first opening a website.

Landing Pages can now be fun, visual, and engaging rather than bland and full of text!  Here are some design ideas that you as a small business owner can pass on to your web designer to include in their design of your website!

AI-Generated Designs:

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing web design. It can create personalized layouts, generate unique visuals, and optimize user experiences.  AI-driven tools analyze data, predict user behavior, and adapt designs in real-time, making websites more dynamic and user-centric.  Here are a few images created by AI technology.

Skeuomorphism Returns:

Skeuomorphism, which mimics real-world objects in design, is making a comeback. Think buttons that resemble physical buttons or realistic textures.

This trend adds familiarity and depth to digital interfaces, creating a bridge between the virtual and physical worlds.  Here are a couple of AI generated buttons that look like a house and a retro tv!

Parallax Scrolling:

Parallax scrolling has been around for quite a while, but it still creates a captivating 3D effect as users scroll down a page. Background and foreground elements move at different speeds, adding depth.  When used judiciously, parallax scrolling can enhance storytelling and engagement. I have used it a lot when I have background images, that require movement such as water, and clouds.

Dynamic Typography:

Typography isn’t just about fonts; it’s about animation, interaction, and expression. Expect to see bold, animated text that responds to user actions.  Dynamic typography adds personality and impact to web content, making it more memorable.  If you are using text to create links instead of buttons, it is a great way to draw attention to those links.

Vibrant Gradients:

Gradients are back, but with a twist. Bold, vibrant gradients are replacing flat colors. They create depth, evoke emotions, and add visual interest.  Seems as though ‘retro’ is back as ombres, and gradients of color were commonly used in clothing and furnishings!  Designers are experimenting with unconventional color combinations to make websites stand out.

Micro-Interactions:

Micro-interactions are subtle animations triggered by user actions (like hovering over a button or clicking). They provide feedback and enhance usability.  From playful hover effects to smooth transitions, micro-interactions make websites feel alive and responsive.

Remember, while trends inspire, your unique intentions and creativity should guide your designs. Stay informed but let your company’s vision shine through! 🌟