Website Optimization: Justin Rondeau on Cisco Solutions

TL;DR

Justin Rondeau critiques Cisco's website design for clarity and functionality.

Transcript

looking forward hi everyone and welcome to another website redesign review I'm Justin Rondo the director of optimization at digital marketer and today we're going to be looking at Cisco's Solutions page specifically uh filled with their information on their education Solutions here and as always I'll be breaking down these Pages based off of five m... Read More

Key Insights

• The Cisco Solutions page uses outdated design elements like gradients, which may not appeal to modern web users.
• The page is cluttered with unnecessary elements like social media links and news sections, which could be removed for a cleaner look.
• The redesign attempts to improve clarity with a single focus and better layout, but the copy still lacks impact.
• Readability is enhanced with better font sizes and sectioned layouts, though some content areas need clearer calls to action.
• The updated design improves the on-site experience by simplifying navigation and using more intuitive layouts.
• The new page design is visually appealing and likely to convert better due to its organized structure.
• Navigation has been improved with a cleaner, more spacious design, eliminating the use of gradients.
• Despite improvements, some elements like the 'I need to' section could be more effectively executed to enhance user understanding.

Questions & Answers

Q: What outdated design elements does the Cisco Solutions page use?

The Cisco Solutions page utilizes outdated design elements such as gradients in navigation, which are less common in modern web design. These elements may not resonate with contemporary users who expect more streamlined and minimalistic design trends. Updating these elements can significantly improve the page's appeal and usability.

Q: How does the redesign improve the readability of the Cisco Solutions page?

The redesign enhances readability by using better font sizes and organizing content into sections that are familiar to users. This structured approach allows for easier navigation and comprehension. However, some sections, like the 'I need to' area, still require clearer calls to action to guide users effectively through the page.

Q: What are the main issues with the clarity of the Cisco Solutions page?

The main clarity issues stem from vague headlines and suboptimal copy that doesn't immediately communicate the page's purpose. While the redesign focuses more on a single theme, the language used in headings and subheadings could be more direct and impactful to ensure users quickly understand the page's offerings and benefits.

Q: Why does Justin Rondeau consider the on-site experience improved in the redesign?

Rondeau considers the on-site experience improved due to the more organized and visually appealing layout, which simplifies navigation and enhances user engagement. The page eliminates clutter and focuses on user needs, making it easier for visitors to find relevant information and interact with the content effectively.

Q: What suggestions does Rondeau make for further enhancing the Cisco Solutions page?

Rondeau suggests removing unnecessary elements like social media links and news sections that do not contribute to the page's primary goals. He also recommends refining the 'I need to' section to more clearly communicate solutions and actions, ensuring that users can easily understand and engage with the content.

Q: How does the redesign affect the navigation of the Cisco Solutions page?

The redesign improves navigation by adopting a cleaner, more spacious design that eliminates the use of gradients. This change makes the navigation bar easier to use and less visually overwhelming, providing users with a more intuitive and straightforward path to find the information they need.

Q: What are the benefits of focusing on user needs in the Cisco Solutions page redesign?

Focusing on user needs allows the page to address specific pain points and provide tailored solutions, which can enhance user satisfaction and conversion rates. By structuring content around what users require, the page becomes more relevant and valuable, potentially increasing engagement and effectiveness in meeting user objectives.

Q: What is the overall verdict on the Cisco Solutions page redesign?

The overall verdict is that the Cisco Solutions page redesign is a marked improvement, winning in all categories of Rondeau's review criteria. The new design is more visually appealing, better organized, and likely to convert more effectively. However, further refinements in clarity and execution could enhance its impact even more.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Justin Rondeau reviews the Cisco Solutions page, focusing on design elements like clarity, readability, and navigation. He finds the page cluttered with outdated design features and unnecessary content, suggesting improvements for a cleaner, more modern look.

• The redesign of Cisco's page offers a more organized and visually appealing experience, though some areas still lack clarity and effective calls to action. Rondeau appreciates the focus on user needs but suggests further refinement for better user engagement.

• Overall, the updated Cisco page wins in all categories of Rondeau's review criteria, including appearance and on-site experience. He highlights the importance of modern design elements and clear navigation to enhance user interaction and conversion rates.