dev/null

Testing your site can often reveal surprises.

To begin website testing, start by brainstorming variations of your website. You can decide on small changes, like swapping out a photo, or large changes, like an overhaul of your website's layout or color scheme. Then, by using a free tool like Website Optimizer, you can test your changes by automatically showing different visitors different versions of your site.

Here are four design tips to pay attention to:

* Tip #1: Pass the 8 second test.
At first glance, a visitor should understand the purpose of your website within a few seconds. People are busy and have limited attention spans — you want to keep them from hitting the dreaded back button.

* Tip #2: Tell them what's in it for them.
Create clear and tangible benefits (e.g., "Save more! Make extra money! Look better with our product!").

* Tip #3: Use compelling images.
Try product images instead of generic stock photos, icons with blocks of text, and buttons instead of links. Keep in mind that a low-quality, irrelevant image can kill your site's credibility.

* Tip #4: Close the sale.
Help your visitors take the next step. Make that step clear and easy to reach; don't make them hunt for it. Action words like "buy now" may work better than "add to cart," for instance.

From the official Google Blog