10 techniques for an effective ‘call to action’
This is a really good article that documents the obvious and the not-so-obvious design decisions behind creating effective calls to action…
Original article: http://boagworld.com/design/10_techniques_for_an_effective/
Having an effective call to action is an essential part of any website. A call to action is not just limited to ecommerce sites. Every website should have an objective it wants users to complete whether it is filling in a contact form, signup for a newsletter or volunteering their time.
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An effective call to action is the linchpin of a successful site and involves drawing together best practice in usability, creative visual design and powerful copy writing.
Summary
- lay the groundwork
- offer a little extra
- have a small number of distinct actions
- use active urgent language
- get the position right
- use white space
- use an alternative colour
- make it big
- have a call to action on every page
- carry the call through
Selected screen-shots from the article
Skype clearly show the benefits of downloading their application
The Things website draws attention to its calls to action by using a constrasting colour
Original article: http://boagworld.com/design/10_techniques_for_an_effective/