Popups: Problematic Trends and Alternatives

Popups are one of the most prevalent and recognizable web design trends to come out in recent years. However, the downside of this trend is that they can be intrusive and annoying. This article aims to learn and discuss these problems and offer viable alternatives to the design pattern that has been so popular. Keep reading to know what is a pop up and common popup problematic trends with ways to avoid them with no fuss.

Problem 1: Showing A Popup Before The Main Page Content Loads

Popups are usually a design pattern used in some form on almost every webpage. The idea behind the design pattern is to show a popup window before the content loads, such as when you click a button. This method provides an opportunity for companies to capture user data and show personalized advertisements, which is why these companies make them so popular.

The problem, however, with this method is that they completely obstruct the screen when a user clicks on anything on the page. This can be very annoying and even dangerous for users who traffic the website and have no opportunity to explore the content.

How To Resolve: Let The Content Completely Loaded, Then Show A Popup

This is possibly one of the best ways to resolve this problem regarding popups. If a popup is meant to be used as content information or to show ads, users should see the page first and make their own decision.

35 percent of internet users are likely to abandon a site if they are forced to view a popup before accessing any other material on the site, according to the study. But when given the option, 65 percent of those same users will give permission for websites to contact them directly via email in exchange for something specific that benefits them.

Problem 2: Asking For An Email Address Before Interaction

Another common issue with popups is asking for an email address before interaction or giving users access to the content on a website. This causes problems because these requests are often cryptic, which can cause further confusion and frustration.

When asking for an email address, the information can be incorporated into the website’s footer, but this still doesn’t solve the issue of having to fill out forms repeatedly. Some users might even be obligated to reveal personal information they do not want to be revealed, such as their full name, phone number, and address.

How To Resolve: Offer Users Something Valuable And Tangible In Exchange For Their Email Address

This can be a great way to resolve this problem of popups. When users agree to provide an email address, give them something in exchange for that information. On the page where they enter their email address, offer an incredible deal on a product or service. This will make them feel like they are getting something valuable in exchange for their information and will make them more willing to provide it.

Problem 3: Asking For Feedback Before People Have Done Anything Meaningful

Popups are also known for being intrusive and bothersome, which is why this is a common problem that could be avoided. Some more irritating examples are when popups ask for feedback before people have done anything meaningful on a website. This can be very annoying and frustrating.

How To Resolve: Ask Users To Provide Feedback Immediately After They Have Completed A Top Task On Your Site

Another option to resolve this problem is asking users to provide feedback immediately after completing a top task on your site. After completing that task, they will be ready to give you feedback and are more likely to do so.

Problem 4: Interrupting Users To Ask For Feedback During Critical Tasks

It gets even worse when interrupting users ask for feedback during critical tasks. A prime example is when companies start bombarding users with popups asking for feedback while purchasing tickets to a major sporting event. Many users might have planned urgent actions, and the popups will likely get in the way.

How To Resolve: Ask Users To Provide Feedback Only After Critical Tasks Are Completed

Another way to resolve this problem is to ask users to provide feedback only after critical tasks are completed. After completing those tasks, they will be ready to provide you with feedback.

Problem 5: Showing Multiple Popups One After Another

This problem is a common one. Many companies and websites show multiple popups one after another. The trend of showing multiple popups in a row has been growing and has become more prevalent with the growth of the mobile web. This can be annoying for users who are trying to use your site but are constantly interrupted by popup windows.

How To Resolve: Be Sure To Show Only One Popup At A Time

If users are being interrupted by too many popups, consider limiting the number of popups shown at one time. These types of popups can create a negative experience for users who want to read or use your site without being interrupted by these popup windows. Popups should not be in their way if a user wants to view multiple content sections.

The Bottom Line

While popups can be a great way to generate interest and gain user engagement, they can also be distracting and have a negative impact on your website. As a business owner or webmaster, you have the option to use popups in any way you want. However, it’s important to make sure they are not interfering with the content on your page or causing more problems than they are worth. If you implement them, keep them simple and give users an option of whether or not they would like to see the content in the future.

 

Kimberly Atwood’s books have received starred reviews in Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, and Booklist. Kimberly lives in the Rocky Mountains with her husband, an exceptionally perfect dog, and an attack cat. Before she started writing historical research, Kimberly got a graduate degree in theoretical physical chemistry from Ohio State University. After that, just to shake things up, she went to law school at the University of London and graduated summa cum laude. Then she did a handful of clerkships with some really important people who are way too dignified to be named here. She was a law professor for a while. She now writes full-time.

You May Have Missed