Is it time to Update Your Website?
Let’s say it’s been about five years since you’ve either built or rebuilt your website. In some ways, it feels like yesterday! Everything works fine, and as far as you can see, there’s nothing really wrong with it. I know how you feel! So why would I tell you it’s time to consider a refresh? Don’t worry – I got you.
Technology Marches On
When I say technology is advancing and evolving every single day, I am not exaggerating. And I’m not just talking about headline grabbers like AI and automated everything. I’m talking about the granular, behind-the-scenes stuff like coding practices that continue to evolve at an amazing pace.
Updating your website ensures compatibility with the latest generation of web standards, browsers, and devices. It allows you to leverage new features and functionalities that can enhance your website’s performance, accessibility, and, perhaps most importantly, security. A website update might not be as flashy as incorporating Chat GPT, but when it comes to your web presence and your business, it’s pretty darn important.
User Experience
Technology and user experience—which is to say, the customer experience—go hand in hand. And to be honest, I could argue that user experience is the biggest reason to update your site. As technology advances, expectations for website functionality and usability increase. Updating your website regularly enables you to enhance the user experience by implementing user-friendly navigation, faster loading times, and intuitive interfaces—an area that is constantly changing based on trends. (Hey, I don’t make the rules!) The thing is, a positive user experience can lead to increased engagement, longer visits, and higher conversion rates. No brainer, right?
Accurately Reflect Your Business
I’m not one to make assumptions, but I’m willing to bet that your business has gone through at least a couple of changes since your last website update. We’re always evolving and growing—and, hey, I love that for us! It’s what keeps things interesting, right? If your business has new products, services, or offerings, updating your website provides an opportunity to highlight them prominently. This helps ensure that your website accurately represents your business and keeps your audience informed about your latest goal-crushing developments.
In addition to products and services, an outdated website may not accurately represent your current brand identity or convey your business’s core message. And if that is true, boy do I have some news for you. By updating your website, you can ensure that it aligns with your brand strategy, reflects your business’s current offerings and values, and provides an up-to-date representation of your company.
And by the way—if your business has changed to the point where your brand identity is in question, I just happen to know some amazing people who can help with that! Do yourself a solid and send Jennie an email (link).
Now, with all that said, website updates should be driven by a thoughtful strategy and an understanding of your audience’s needs and preferences. Reviewing your marketing and branding strategy and refreshing your website’s content, design, and functionality will help you maintain a strong online presence and stay competitive in the digital ether.