Why bad UX is expensive on B2B websites

B2B websites play a crucial role in the customer’s decision-making process. Before a potential customer even talks to a salesperson, they’ve usually visited the company’s website, explored solutions, and compared alternatives. That’s why user experience – also called UX – isn’t just a matter of design, but a key factor in whether visitors become customers.

Jacob Mohr Hansen
May 7, 2025

Poor user experience creates friction

One of the most common challenges on B2B websites is that they are often complex and information-heavy. This can make it hard for visitors to navigate and quickly understand what the company offers – and how it’s relevant to them. The result can be a high bounce rate, low time spent on page, and missing conversions, simply because the user doesn’t get their questions answered or can’t find what they’re looking for.

It becomes especially problematic when the website doesn’t take into account the different roles and personas typically involved in a B2B decision-making process. A technical buyer has different information needs than a CFO or a CEO – and if the content and structure don’t reflect that, you’ll quickly lose their attention.

Unclear messaging and difficult navigation

Another common issue is unclear or self-centered messaging. Many websites start with a long introduction to the company instead of addressing the visitor’s needs or challenges. This makes it hard for users to figure out if they’re in the right place – and what the next step should be.

Then there’s the navigation, which is often built around internal structures rather than user logic. If it takes several clicks to find basic information – like pricing, services or contact options – a large share of traffic drops off without any interaction.

Mobile experience is still lagging

Even though most people now know that mobile-friendliness is important, many B2B sites still don’t perform well on smartphones and tablets. Text is hard to read, menus are confusing, and important clickable elements are poorly placed. This is a significant problem, as many decision-makers begin their research on mobile – often outside normal office hours.

UX is crucial for conversion

Good UX is fundamentally about making it easy for the visitor to find what they’re looking for – and take the next step. That might be reading more, signing up for a newsletter, downloading content or booking a demo. When the experience is intuitive, and the content is targeted to the right people at the right time, the chance of turning visitors into leads or customers increases.

Strong UX/UI design is not just a visual upgrade – it’s a strategic move that can make a real difference in how effective the website is as a sales and marketing channel. For B2B companies with complex services and long decision processes, it’s especially important to make the journey as smooth as possible.

Web design should reflect the company’s brand and ambitions

Besides functionality and structure, a B2B website’s design should also reflect the company’s identity and ambitions. The visual expression, tone of voice and interactive elements communicate more than you might think. An unambitious or generic design sends a message – and in the worst case, it can contrast with the quality the company otherwise delivers.

On the other hand, a thoughtful design that balances aesthetics with professionalism will strengthen both credibility and differentiation. It’s not about being flashy, but about being consistent and intentional. Colors, typography, image style and layout should support the story the company wants to tell in the market – and reflect the position they’re aiming for.

When form and content work together, the company doesn’t just get a more user-friendly website – it gets a digital platform that actively supports both sales, marketing efforts and long-term brand value.

Is your B2B website ready to support the customer journey?

If you’re unsure how well your website performs – or whether it truly supports your brand, sales process and lead generation – it may be worth getting an external perspective.

We offer a free, non-binding analysis of your B2B website, where we assess:

  • Usability and navigation structure
  • Clarity in messaging and CTAs

  • Brand consistency and visual identity

  • Mobile-friendliness and technical performance

  • Potential for improved lead generation

Get clear insights into where your website already performs well, and where there are concrete opportunities to strengthen your digital sales engine.

Need sparring or help improving your UX and conversions?

Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re ready to help.

Digital Advisor

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Jacob Mohr Hansen
More posts by Jacob Mohr Hansen