When you need a new website, it's hard to know if it's actually time for a new one. How do you know it's not just another refresh?
We've been hearing this question more often lately and even asked it of ourselves several times. We started looking for signs that show a new website may be needed to answer the question. And these tell-tale signs aren't difficult to spot.
1. It's No Longer Visually Appealing
The first sign is the visual representation of your brand. When was the last time you looked at your website and thought, "wow" or "this is beautiful"? For most businesses, it's been a long time. If the visual representation of your brand doesn't "wow" you or make you feel proud, it's time to get a new one.
2. The Brand Message is Unclear
No matter how visually beautiful a website is, it can't help your brand if the message is unclear. Your website should be able to send a clear, concise and consistent message.
As mentioned, your website should be the visual representation of all the things your brand does. If it's not, it's time to make a new one.
3. The Website doesn't Help Achieve Business Goals
Have you ever asked yourself, "Is my website helping my business become the go-to place for your target audience?"
And if you are the go-to place, are you on top of things, or do they need to go elsewhere?
The thing is, there's not a real clear answer to what your website should do for your business. It can be used for anything from lead generation to generating sales. What's really important here is that your website should be changing with your business, helping it grow, and achieve its goals. If your website isn't helping, it's time for an update.
4. It's Not Mobile-Responsive
If you're not paying attention to mobile, you're doing it wrong. Being mobile-responsive is not an option anymore because there are now more people using mobile devices to access the internet than desktops and laptops. If your website doesn't look good on mobile, it's time to change it.
5. The Website is Too Complicated
Have you ever surfed a website and wondered, how did I end up here? That's because your website is too complicated.
When a website is complex, people don't know what they're looking at or how to use it. As a result, it doesn't deliver a good user experience. When visitors don't have a good user experience browsing your website, they will likely exit the page in less than ten seconds. As a result, this will increase your bounce rates, affecting your overall website ranking.
So, if you notice a higher bounce rate, or receive feedback that your website is too complicated, this is a clear sign that it's time for a new one.
6. It's Not Being Used for its True Potential
Your website is a critical aspect of your business. If it's not being used to its true potential, it's time for a new one. Instead of having a website that feels like it's collecting dust, making a new one is the smarter move that will save you more money in the long run.
What's Next?
Web design has changed so much over the past several years that you have to stay on top of it. If you're not, you'll find yourself falling behind. It's essential that you, as a business owner, stay on top of everything web-related. Otherwise, you'll find yourself with a website that doesn't do what it's supposed to do.
Do you need help with web design? Let Online Designs UK create and design a website that will hit all the right spots. We are based in St. Neots, and we have over five years of experience working with local businesses on their websites and technology. Contact us now.