In the past, multi-page web designs dominated the internet. Some websites even opted to split single articles or topics into multiple pages to keep the amount of content presented at any one time to a minimum. However, one-page website designs have begun to grow in popularity in recent times, with most quality designers offering both options.
Both single and multi-page website designs have their pros and cons, and both styles have particular function which make them attractive to certain people. When designing your website, it is important to consider both styles to decide which will have the greatest impact on your target audience. We have outlined the major pros and cons of both styles below. Hopefully they will help you get started on your web design journey:
Multi-page design:
Almost everyone is familiar with multi-page website designs. The standard layout involves a number of pages, each covering a particular topic or part of a topic, and each accessible via a home page and/or menu bar. Multi-page web design is generally used when people have a lot of content to present, but can detract from the main focus of a website (if there is one).
Pros:
- Multi-page website designs allow the presentation of a lot of information.
- They are dynamic, and can be added to whenever new info arises.
- They allow the reader to easily select what they want to read (on a well-designed website).
Cons:
- It can be hard to present a clear statement or aim, if you have one.
- Too much information can cause visitors to leave your website.
- Loading times can also drive visitors away.
Single page design:
Single page website designs have become very trendy over the past few years. They are generally used for marketing or salesy type websites which have one clear aim. They are very useful for getting a point across to the reader, and are often the destination of sponsored links and ads.
Pros:
- The website only needs to be loaded once.
- Once someone has started reading a page, they will be much more likely to finish reading it than if they had to click through to a second page.
- Single page websites are quick and easy to create.
Cons:
- It can be hard to present a lot of content on a single page.
- Visitors can get lost if you have too much content.
- If not designed well, you might find that people leave your site without engaging at all.
Final word:
If you are serious about creating the best website for your needs, then you need to consider using both single and multi-page designs. If your budget allows it, then trial both styles for a few days, analyse the associated statistics, and choose the one which works best. Good luck!