So you've created a website for your business. Now what? As the power and influence of the Internet rapidly increases, simply having a website isn't always enough to reach new markets and improve business. Web design usability plays a major role in the performance of your website, guiding visitors from the homepage to product pages, contact forms and shopping carts, and converting clicks into leads. Below, find five tips for Web design usability.

Keep It Simple. An effective website gets people where they want to be quickly and easily. Busy logos and hard-to-read fonts can distract viewers and turn them away, costing you a potential opportunity. Clean design and easy navigation are critical to a successful website, so that viewers can find what they need with a single click of the mouse.

Know Your Audience. Are you targeting your website toward parents or business people? Doctors or lawyers? Homeowners or property managers? Your Web design strategy relies heavily on your target audience, so be sure to do the necessary research in order to design a website that effectively appeals and speaks to your market.

Communicate Your Message. Many people can judge a company by its website within just a few seconds. Your website must communicate who you are and what you do clearly and boldly, catching viewers' attention immediately and keeping them on your site.

Consider the Content. The content on your website further explains your company's values, services, products, history and other information. Large blocks of content and elaborate fonts can be a strain on the eyes. Short paragraphs, lists, bullets and sidebars help break up the site's content, making it easier to read and follow.

Be Consistent. When Web users visit a website, they often have a basic idea of how common websites are laid out. Keep your website consistent with what viewers are familiar with, so that they know exactly where to go for contact information, product pages and more.