Time for a website redesign?

Remember the days when the Altavista, Lycos, and Blue Mountain Arts websites ruled the web? Well, as great as they were...1998 called, and asked us to let you know that it’s time to update your website!

We think websites should be updated regularly, with major overhauls planned for when big things happen in the company. How can you tell if it’s time for a major rejuvenation?

Is your website more like a static electronic brochure than a living marketing tool?
Long gone are the days when a page like the first Yahoo one would suffice as one of those fancy website things. Flash programming, a virtual spokesperson, videos, contact form, newsletter sign-up box, and a social media feed are a few ways to bring your website out of the dial-up ages.

Does a person greet visitors to your website?
Mentioned above, a virtual spokesperson is a friendly and informative way to make guests to your site feel right at home. They are engaged immediately and stay on your website longer. The virtual spokesperson can direct users to certain pages on the site and deliver your chosen call to action.

Does your website’s look and feel reflect any recent changes in branding and positioning?
Is your website current with all pricing, products, places to purchase, and promotions?
Changes in your marketing need to make the rounds - don’t forget to update advertising, brochures, your website, social media accounts, and your staff.

A website’s primary jobs are to acquaint users with your company and its offerings and generate leads. Simply put, if you aren’t seeing these benefits (at the very least), it’s time to update your web presence.

Are you ready for Google’s new crackdown on the overuse of keywords?
Fresh content and frequently adding new material boosts your SEO. Now that Google is looking at keywords use more closely, you’ll want to make sure to have a professional help prepare your website for this new era of SEO.



Preparing for the Facelift

A few examples of questions to ask before the facelift:
What are the reasons for updating your website?
What are the goals for your website?
How do you want your customers to perceive your company, brand, and product?
How much current content can you still use?
Which pages are most important to update?
Do you need new photos or videos? If so, what is the lead time your production company needs?
What new keywords are relevant and can be added to your website?
When will the website changes be scheduled for and go live?
What other company events and seasonal considerations might affect the redesign timing?

Giving your website a facelift doesn’t have to be stressful and painful with a long recovery time, especially if you plan ahead and use a professional web designer. Before you embark on this project, click here to see how some popular websites looked in 1998, again in 2008, then compare how they look today!

Download our free eBook for web site redesign.