Is your website in need of a refresh?
It’s not always obvious when a site needs an update. Maybe it’s crossed your mind but you’re not sure if it’s worth the investment. Even though a site refresh is a great way to breathe new life into your design, it won’t bring you more traffic and sales for the heck of it. Whatever updates are made should align with your business goals and objectives.
To help determine if your website is ready for a refresh, here are nine signs to consider.
1. Your website looks outdated.
If your site is still using Flash images, low quality graphics and small font, it’s time for a makeover. The trends change constantly, but a few years without applying these trends can put your website back twice as fast. Some of the latest web design trends include web animation, flat design, bold colors, inventive typography and storytelling.
2. Your website loads slowly.
Nothing is more disappointing than a slow loading website. It’s likely that certain elements on your site are to blame for the turtle-slow performance. Ideally, your website should load in two seconds or less. To boost speed, try minimizing HTTP requests, minifying files, optimizing image size and using plugins sparingly.
3. Your website is not secure.
Your website should be 100% secure. If it’s not, the major web browsers will tell users that your site is “not secure” and you’ll lose traffic. Install an SSL certificate on your new stie to protect your business and customers. An updated, secure website adds trust and authority to your brand.
4. Your website creates poor user experiences.
As your brand has evolved, it’s possible that your website no longer meets your customers’ needs. This can leave them with poor user experiences as they try to navigate your site. A site refresh allows you to improve navigation and help users find the information they’re looking for in a couple of clicks.
5. Your website is not mobile friendly.
More searches take place on mobile than desktop. If your current website wasn’t built for mobile users, it’s time to make a change. A responsive website will adapt to any screen, giving all users a great experience. These adaptable sites also eliminate the need to have duplicate versions of your site.
6. Your website isn’t converting visitors.
Maybe your website looks great, but is it doing its job? If your website isn’t converting visitors into leads, there is probably a gap in your pipeline. By refreshing your website, you can reassess your funnel and how to nurture customers through it.
7. Your website doesn’t give you control.
Older websites sometimes lack in features because of the content management system they were built on. By upgrading your site, you can take advantage of additional features that give you more control over your site.
8. Your website needs new content.
Content is the backbone of a great website. Content is what engages and informs visitors and keeps them in the pipeline. If your website has generic, thin, duplicate or poorly written content, remove it from your site and update it with fresh, relevant content. Each piece of content should offer value to your readers.
9. Your website isn’t consistent with your branding.
If your business has evolved over the years, your website may no longer match your identity. Your website is your virtual front door, so it should be consistent with your branding and align with your goals. Perhaps you even have new products and services to add to your lineup!
If your website is due for a refresh, give Magna Technology a call for a free quote. A new update can make all the difference for your brand in terms of traffic, sales and brand awareness.
