If
you have a web site already
Sites
should be updated regularly, have new features added, and by far have
working links. However, as the site grows it soon outgrows its foundation.
Leading to an unorganized use of content, poor usability, and eventually
chaos. A new site is a perfect opportunity to take an inventory and
put things back on track. It will also allow for a better user experience.
New Foundation
With
any re-design it is a great time to do a little rethinking. Looking
at the current site a question needs to be asked. What is it that people
want when coming to my site? By understanding what it is people are
looking for from your site you will be able to better position that
information within the architecture of the entire site.
Judging by the Cover
The
old adage "Never judge a book by its cover" doesn't apply
to your website. Users to your site make quick and often harsh judgment
calls within seconds of viewing your homepage. By making outstanding
first impression with a crisp, clean, professional look the user gets
a sense of trust from the company behind the site.
Follow the Leader
Your
site could have the exact information a specific user is looking for.
However, if it takes too long for them to locate it chances are they
will go somewhere else to find the information. By making your site
as user friendly as possible you will be able to guide the user to specific
areas of content. Bringing content that is hidden under multiple clicks
to the forefront makes it easy for a user to locate. As well as, leads
the user to other areas of your site that they might not have known
about.
New Experience
New
features can dramatically improve the user experience. Online calendars
that allow a user to register for events are a perfect example of how
a simple feature increases the value of a site. No longer does the user
have to call or mail in an RSVP card. As such, the company doesn't need
a person to answer the phone for every registration.
Cheapest Employee
Your
website could be your cheapest employee. It has already been mentioned
that your site could make your day-to-day tasks a thing of the past.
By adding features to your site that help educate your user base, ehhance
marketing efforts, as well as, develope a sense of who your users are
you are in reality making your site work harder for you. The simple
fact is that you have a site. Why not make it work harder and do more
for you and your company? An offshoot of adding features like this is
that your users have more interaction with your site and your company.
Your Future Customers
The
whole goal of a re-design is to create a better experience for your
users. There are many approaches to attain such a goal. Maybe it is
a new look, a revised navigation scheme, or a complete overhaul. Whatever
the outcome, your site should reflect the company behind the site and
insure a sense of trust with you future customers.
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