Should I have my website redesigned?

When is it time for a website redesign? On average, a good rule of thumb is that an average website has an approximate “shelf life” of between 18 and 30 months – or 1.5 to 2.5 years or so.  Basically it’s usually a good idea to think about refreshing your website about as frequently as most of us get a new smartphone.

An outdated design not only affects the way your site looks but can also impact the functionality. If it has been two or more years since you’ve updated your website, then you’re definitely overdue for an upgrade. Design trends change and technology is constantly changing.

Your website is often the first impression that you’ll have with a potential client before having the opportunity to speak with them.

Although many do-it-yourself website platforms promise that you can create a professional-looking site all by yourself, that’s also often where the effectiveness stops. Unless you design websites professionally you won’t know all of the ins and outs associated with this process.  It would be like trying to build a home yourself when you just have a book on it and you are a dentist.  You’re much better off contacting a professional.

Another factor when figuring out if it’s time for a website redesign is “Is your website mobile friendly?” If not, you need to find a web design company immediately. Seriously. You are losing business by the second.  Have you ever gone on a website that was hard to use? It’s so frustrating that most people exit the site and find another brand or service provider with a more user-friendly site.  It’s true. No one is going to waste time trying to figure out how to use your website. Poor design and user experience are a recipe for failure. You may also be missing out on search engine traffic if your site has a low mobile-friendly test score on Google.

There are plenty of indicators that can help you determine if it’s time for a website redesign.

Age is certainly a factor. If it’s been a few years since you last gave your website was designed, it’s probably time to at least consider it. But age shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. There are other things to consider. Here are some questions you should ask yourself:

• Is my website mobile friendly?
• Has my business stayed exactly the same since my website was last designed?
• Does my website look modern?
• Does my website function well on all technologies (browsers, screen sizes, devices, etc.)?
• Is my website as good or better than the competition’s?
• Am I seeing growth with my current website?
• Do my customers compliment my website?
• Does my website align with my current business goals?
• Am I proud to share my website with potential clients or employees?
• Do I even like looking at my website?

If you answered “No” to any of these questions, then now is the time to have your website redesigned. Of course, some of these questions are easier than others. With some, the answers are based on simple tests, while others may depend on data, and some are just based plainly on subjective opinion. In the end, it is all the same… Like the bionic man from the 70s hit tv show, your website needs to be rebuilt… stronger… faster… adaptable. The solution is a redesign.

People arrive at your website and immediately get their first curb appeal impression of your brand.

Is it telling them that you’re modern and engaged and capable of delivering the product, service or support they need? Or is it old and dated, featuring design elements like traffic counters or flashing banners that reminds potential customers of something past its prime? If it’s the latter, a website redesign is DEFINITELY needed.

If you don’t feel confident about your website after visiting a competitor’s site, then it may be time for a redesign. When your potential clients are looking at similar businesses for services, their decision could be tied to something as simple as whose website looked better. Your website is often your first impression, so you might as well make it a good one.

The web is constantly evolving and adapting, and if you’re not moving to adjust with it, you’re bound to be left behind

There’s nothing wrong with coming to the decision that it’s time to retire your website’s current design. Invest in building a new site not because you think you should, but because you need to if you want to stay relevant and offer the best content and experience to your visitors. A website redesign can make your company’s image more agile and adaptable showing you can update and change with the web.

When building out a redesigned website, discuss the challenges you want to overcome with the team involved in designing your new site. Whether it’s driving leads, selling products online, or greater visibility and traffic, G5 DESIGN can help to build up your online presence. Remember, your website is a 24/7 marketing tool for your business. In many cases, it’s the first impression your business will have on potential clients before meeting you. Working with a web professional ensures your website provides an engaging user experience and helps you achieve your marketing goals.

Are you considering a website redesign?  Send us a message and we can schedule a FREE consultation.

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