Dynamic Business

Developing an effective website for your business can be a complex task. While it’s tempting to focus on creating engaging copy and funky visuals, there are a number of other factors that can have a major impact on its success.

When creating a website, businesses need to think about usability, ensuring the site is easy to navigate and provides relevant information quickly and simply. It’s also important to focus on the backend of the site as much as the front-end – the best websites are those that have inbuilt functionality which allow them to grow with the business.

While there are a lot of factors to consider, tackling the web development process smartly and logically makes it easy to develop a website that enhances your business offering.

Why do you need a website?

Before planning begins, it is important to take a step back and clarify the business case behind setting up a website. Small businesses often use their websites to provide information to existing and prospective customers. However, some SMEs may want to expand their sites to enable customer engagement, marketing initiatives or even e-commerce. You should establish clear short term and long term goals for the website at the outset. These goals need to remain front of mind during the development process as they will inform the look, feel and functionality of the site.

Working with a website designer

To develop a professional and fully functional site it is advisable to work with an experienced website designer. It is important to look at the designer’s previous work and even speak to their clients to understand whether they are a good fit for your business. It is also important to be prepared when you meet with designers. Find four or five examples of websites you like and point out exactly what appeals to you and what is an absolute no-go. If you have done your research and have some ideas to discuss, you will be well placed to find a web designer who will meet your needs.

KISS

Once your goals have been established and your web design team is in place, it’s time to start thinking about the design and layout of your site. During the initial stages, it is easy to get swept away with big-impact ideas. However, the KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid!) principle is essential when it comes to web- development.

The most important concepts to remember during the design stage are simplicity and consistency. Rather then cluttering the site with fancy functionality, focus on making it simple for users to navigate. A well designed site is easy to explore, enabling users to quickly carry out their objectives. It is also important to incorporate consistent design, navigation and language on each page, making it easy for users to move forward and delve into the site further.

Websites should be viewed as an extension of your business; it is often the first impression your customers and clients have. Think of your website as your reception area: if it is welcoming, well designed and ordered, it conveys a sense of professionalism.