5 Reasons to Update Your Company Website

Get Your Business Into the 21st Century

It’s been said that if you want something new, you have to stop doing something old. Businesses that have not updated their website design since first getting online in the late 1990s or early 2000s are potentially driving customers away and possibly losing the mobile audience completely.  Here are 5 reasons to update your company website sooner rather than later.

Increase visual appeal

First impressions matter. Research shows that people judge websites as harshly and quickly as they judge people. Visitors to any website view it as a reflection of the business at large. If your company’s website looks clean and professional, people believe the organization is authoritative. A lot of respect and trust can be gained in as little as the 50 milliseconds experts say it takes for a first impression.

Likewise, a lot can be lost in the same amount of time. If the site is poorly designed or visually out-of-date, poor assumptions are made. As websites age, certain parts just don’t work as well and become outdated. Visitors are quick to grasp this when they see antiquated color schemes, fonts or stock photos. Make sure your site has the look that represents your brand.

Enhance security

Truth be told, any website can be hacked. Some of the biggest companies in the world have been hacked and small businesses are not immune. But businesses that have older websites and rely on older technology greatly increase the chances of a security breach. It is important to take steps to make updates to your design, backup frequently and make your site more secure.

Be more effective with content

When it comes to web design, there is no doubt that appearances weigh heavily on attracting the visitor’s eyes. However, a good looking website will only keep a visitor if it’s effective. Users need navigation that is easy to locate. Outdated information isn’t useful; it’s important to provide clear and effectual content. Additionally, businesses need to be relevant to all users. There are a number of reasons to incorporate Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance into your redesign.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

When business stakeholders don’t update the company website, it is sure to fall in search engine rankings. That’s just the way algorithms work. Search engines regard websites with the most recent content as the most relevant to users. Dated content from five years ago is not helpful to today’s search engines. 

The way users look for information changes rapidly. A redesign not only allows you sift through and update content, it provides the opportunity to craft content with more effective and appropriate keyword targeting that search engines seek. 

Attract new clients/better usability for current clients

When you get search engines to find your site, it gets ranked higher. Thus, new potential customers can click to find you. Plus, a resign provides a fresh look and updated content for current clients. Studies show that 81% of people research a company online before making a purchase. With so much riding on a pleasing web experience, it’s no wonder  68% of marketers feel that a website should be redesigned every 1–3 years. 

Ready for a redesign?

Redesigning your website to be most effective doesn’t have to be overwhelming.  Need more assistance? Contact us for a free consultation. Share your goals with the T.E. Digital team and we’ll help you get there.