When Should You Consider A Website Redesign?
Your website is up and running... and it's a good one. You're getting a good return, the content is compelling and the design is top-notch. Time to let it run along on its own and forget about it, for a while, right?
Not so fast! Even if you've got the perfect website, you may want to, or even need to consider a redesign. Website design standards change, and what looks and feels fresh today may look dated tomorrow. Other reasons for a website redesign are:
- You're re-branding the company
- You're introducing a new product or capability to your market
- You're updating the site to comply with industry standards
- You're making the website easier to use
Even if none of these apply, be aware that after a while, websites lose magnetism, and both visual impact and search-engine ranking can drop. Adding new content or redesigning the site can both refresh the site and improve your search engine placement.
Not all redesign efforts are the same, however. While some are massive bottom-up redesigns, some are just simply refreshing the look. If you're happy with the content and structure of your site, simply changing the graphic elements can give the site a whole new feel. The opposite is also true; if you're happy with the design, you might want to restructure the site to improve its flow or ease of use. But there are times when it pays to completely re-think what your website is supposed to accomplish for you and replace the current one with a whole new site.
Some tips for a successful redesign:
- Make sure everyone involved knows and supports the goals of the site
- Make sure the content, graphic design, and functional design deliver your compelling message effectively
- Find out what your customers want from the site
- Set a realistic budget and timeline to meet the goals
- Find the right people to meet your goals within the timelines you've set