What is it that determines whether a blog design is good or bad, friendly or unfriendly? We all have our own opinions and no one will ever completely agree on every factor. When it comes to the basics, the following seven factors effect everyones views on a blog’s design.

Appearance
The first thing that any visitors sees is the overall appearance of a blog. The design of the blog should complement the blog’s content, not overpower it. The blog design should also match stylistically with the message and the purpose of the site.

Usability
For a blog to be successful, people need to be able to use it. A blog generally has lots of text so it will need to provide excellent readability and  good navigation between articles.

Purpose
You need to blog for a purpose and that purpose needs to be clearly defined and easily understood by the reader.  Your blog’s purpose also helps you  to concentrate on the future direction of the blog.

Clarity
If your blog does have a  ‘purpose’ how clear is it to your readers.  Can your readers easily see ‘what is in it for them’?

User Focused
Does your blog focus on the reader and the readers needs or is it more focused on your needs – for example, income. Focus on your reader and the rest will follow.

Accessibility
Does your blog work in every browser and for different screen resolutions? Having a blog that renders well in one browser but breaks out in another robs you of  a good portion of reader.

Navigation
Finally, navigation. Can  readers easily find their way through to other articles on your blog? Clear menu’s with straightforward categories helps your readers to find what they are looking for.

First impressions count. You need to remember that the moment your blog appears on screen, you are being judged. That is human nature. Before a visitor even gets to the content – they have made up their mind as to their like or dislike of your blog – how well does yours stand up.