1. Make it Work..not just look good
Your website has to look good but it also has to be functional. Bear in mind that while that you may have conflicting views as to the look & feel of your site and those who want to create a wonderful piece of “art” - it has to get a job done. Creative features such as lots of Flash, unusal layouts, large photos, may look impressive; but too many snazzy features can confuse users and make it difficult for prospective clients or customers to find the information they are looking for.
Consider investing some time in looking at other sites that you browse on a regular basis and notice that they will generally have several things in common. Clear navigation bars, clear readable fonts, and minimal use of spacing are what you will find on most popular websites. Look for clever ways to display your key messages; but bear in mind, an overdesigned website may win your agency a design award, but it might not win you new business.
2. Make it Big.. if you plan to get big
Your website is a big investment, however it is not one that you can sit back & rest on your laurel's once it is “done”. If you want to get people to your site you need to invest in continual content strategy & also look to the future and consider what your future business needs will be too. Websites are organic and they need constant maintenance and updates to work best. One of the best ways to ensure that your site is prepared for growth is in the planning process. Consider your navigation bar designs - look at what it might look like if you need to add in extra options or functions down the track. Planning for growth now will potentially save you redesign money down the track.
3. Make it Social.
Websites, by their very nature need to include lots of information on your business - what you do, staff bios, product information. But if this is the only information you include - you aren't giving potential customers a reason to return (even your parents won't read your biography more than once).
Use your business' Twitter feed or latest blog posts on your website’s homepage to show visitors what's new and keep them up to date. This integration will also encourage users to engage with your brand in more than one way - follow your twitter feed, subscribe to your e-newsletter or watch your latest video case study on youtube. Social media in not the “nice to have” anymore, it is an importnant part of your online marketing mix.
4. Make sure it's Mobile
During the recent Rugby World Cup, Foxsports had three times the number of users on their mobile site than on their website. With smartphone and portable device use on the rise, mobile sites are almost essential for some businesses. Creating a mobile version of your firm’s website isn't difficult. It can be as simple as using your key messages and contact details in a smaller and simplie format. This is a really simple & inexpenisve way to keep your customers up to date on the go & show your digital savvy.
To find more great tips on getting marketing results from a website redesign, download our free E Book - Website Redesign for Marketing Results now!
