One of the greatest challenges with the increasing power of websites and web applications is knowing when to say when. Simplicity is more than just the latest buzzword: it’s a founding principle of good design and good software development. Stay focused on your primary objectives and don’t throw in the latest whiz-bang feature just because you can.

A corollary to simplicity is consistency. Say it again: consistency. The biggest difference between “professional-looking,” successful websites and amateurish, “ho-hum” websites is consistency. Consistency reinforces your identity, shows users that you’ve thought carefully about all of the pieces of your site and how they fit together, and ultimately shows your visitors that you care about their experience on your site — because you want to make it a positive one.

Further reading: Getting Real