Have you ever felt lost or confused when talking to web designers because of all the technical terms they’re using? Well, now is your chance to better understand the lingo used for each section of a website. So the next time you speak with a digital agency, you’ll actually know what they’re talking about and maybe even jump into the conversation.
The homepage is where you directly land on when you visit the main address/URL of your website. Usually containing all the major information about your business, it lets your visitors know they’re in the right place and instantly gives them an idea of what you’re business is about. It is also sometimes referred to as ‘Home’ because it serves as the front/opening page that welcomes your website viewers. The homepage also helps them navigate further to the inner pages of your website through different navigation menus and icons.
Located at the topmost area of your page, the header determines how your website is experienced and navigated by visitors. It is where the logo and the primary menu are placed. Some website headers also include contact numbers, social media icons, login/logout options and search bar. Your header stays in the same place no matter what page is being viewed so navigation options are maintained all throughout the website.
The Hero Section is the prominent visual element situated below the Header. As a very important component that instantly catches the viewer’s eye, website creators take a great deal of attention to designing it. The Hero section is usually laid out as an image with a powerful headline. But some designers use a captivating video or a slider to make it more interactive and remarkable.
The unique content located in the big area at the centre of your webpage is your main content. Whether it is within the homepage or inner pages, it serves as the main information that you would like your visitors to focus on. The main content may be a mixture of texts, images, infographics and videos that add major value to the webpage being visited. The text written is known as the web copy while any other form of digital media is a web content.
A sidebar is the slim vertical area usually placed at the right side of a webpage containing additional information related to the main content. It usually consists of call-to-action buttons or extra links to help visitors get around your website easier. For e-commerce sites, the sidebar is usually found on the left containing filter options for products offered.
However, some web designers skip having a sidebar because it can sometimes take away the visitor’s focus on the main content. Others keep the sidebar for better user experience and conversion.
Situated at the lowermost section of a website, the footer is also seen across all pages. The usual elements included on the footer are mostly secondary links such as the Privacy Policy, Terms of Use, Sitemap, Support, Newsletter, Help, social media, etc. Though not as noticeable as the other website sections, the Footer still serves a lot of purpose to visitors, especially to those who are looking for more information that they weren’t able to find elsewhere within your website.
Primary navigation is the main menu that contains links to the most important pages that you would like your visitors to go to. The menu bar found within the header section (topmost part of your website) is considered a primary navigation.
Secondary navigation is other links that lead to pages that are less important than the primary pages.
Combined navigation is when the secondary menus can be accessed by clicking or hovering on the primary navigation links.
A form is a section where your visitors input information to be submitted to your database/records. It is usually comprised of text fields, checkboxes and a submit button.
Generally, you have full control over how information is obtained on your website forms. Based on your need, you can set which data are required and which are optional. Most website forms are used to acquire contact information (aka Contact Forms) and some are used to subscribe an individual to a certain service like official memberships or newsletters (aka Sign-Up Forms).
As an additional guide, we have also listed some of the most common sub-pages that a typical website has:
About Page – this is a page dedicated to you and your business. Anything you want to share with your audience about who you are as a business owner can be stated here. Most About pages contain information about the humble beginnings of a business and the experiences they have had over the years. You may also include some information about the people behind your business such as your partners and employees. Consider having actual pictures for a more stimulating approach.
Products / Services Page – Everything about the products and/or services that you offer are indicated here. Each product/service is described, aiming to convince anyone to avail or purchase it. A picture for each product/service can also be included, if available.
Portfolio / Projects Page – This is where you show how truly capable you are in your industry. Usually showing your previous works or finished projects, this page is a very effective way to flaunt your skills as a service provider. People usually go to the portfolio page to see actual proof of what you have stated on your website content.
Contact Page – This is a page dedicated to your contact information. This usually displays your phone number/s, exact location, e-mail address, social media links and a map to serve as directions to your place of business. A contact form is also included for those who prefer you calling them instead of them reaching out to you.
Though all website sections and pages mentioned on this article may all be beneficial to your business, it is still up to you to decide which should be on your actual website and which should not. It all boils down to your own preferences and whether or not it will contribute to your website’s ease of access and productivity.
Partner with us at Morningstar Digital if you need a well-designed and efficient website that can be a powerful tool for your business’ success. Doesn’t matter if you know these things or not. We will guide you and understand your needs from start to completion of the project.
Are you looking for a team who can translate your design ideas into a stunning, responsive website? Partner with Morningstar Digital and let's make your business stand out online. We'll let you see the design concept in advance so you know the design you’re getting before we even send a project proposal.
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