Most web designers create beautiful websites in a controlled environment—a large high-res monitor, perfect lighting, no distractions. Business owners often review their websites in the same way. But here’s the reality: your customers don’t use or experience your site in perfect conditions.
Real-World Scenarios: The Key Factor In Great Web Design for 2025
Your visitors could be:
- At the ballpark on a sunny day, waiting for their kid’s game to start.
- On public transportation, scrolling between stops.
- Holding a child, a coffee, or a bag—using just one hand.
- In a hurry, looking for information in seconds.
- Managing a disability that affects how they navigate your site.
- Recovering from an injury, making navigation more challenging.
- Struggling with slow internet speeds in a rural area or public Wi-Fi.
- Over 70 and needing clear and specific directions.
- Sitting on the toilet. (you know who you are)
- Speaks a different language.
- Feeling unwell, with limited patience for poor design.
Not Every Website Needs to Be Built for Every Scenario
Some websites are primarily used in office environments, like internal dashboards, business-to-business portals, or corporate intranets. However, if your website is meant for customers, it’s essential to think beyond the perfect office setup.
Six Questions to Ask About Your Website
- Can someone with limited mobility, such as a sprained wrist, easily use my website on a desktop or phone?
- Will users on slow internet connections be able to navigate my site without frustration?
- Is my site readable and accessible for older users who may struggle with small text or low contrast?
- Can someone who isn’t feeling well—whether they have a headache or the flu—still find what they need quickly?
- Will people accessing my site during a commute or in a busy environment be able to use it effectively?
- Do I want all of these people using my website with ease?
Your Website Needs Both Engineering and Design
Think about a car. An engineer ensures it can handle real-world road conditions—rain, potholes, and sudden stops—while a designer ensures it looks sleek and appealing. A well-built website follows the same principle. It needs the functional strength to perform in real-world situations and the aesthetic appeal to engage users.
Evaluate Your Website: Is It Ready for Real-World Use?
Take a moment to visit your website in different scenarios:
- Try using it outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Load it on a slow Wi-Fi connection.
- Navigate it with one hand while holding something.
- Adjust your phone’s brightness to low and see if the text is still readable.
Does your website hold up? If not, it may be time for a real-world redesign. We can assess your site and provide recommendations to make sure it’s built for the way people actually use it. Let us know if you’d like an expert review!