Before you begin, consider why you want a “website redesign”. Are you wanting a fresh coat of paint? Do you have big plans for the site? Did you just decide it has been a while since you last updated your site? None of those reasons alone are great. A website is like your storefront which has a purpose and a function, your website should be no different. Your website is the foundation of your online presence, make it count. Here are a few things to get started and keep in mind before you start:
Goals
What is the purpose of the redesign? What are your measurable outcomes? Starting a website redesign without smart goals is just setting yourself up for failure. SMART goals can help you focus on what matters to enable your business to grow.
S - Specific
M - Measurable
A - Attainable
R - Results Oriented
T - Time Bound
Target Audience
Who are you trying to talk to? What do they want to know? Every update to your site, every graphic message and call to action should have your target audience in mind from the beginning. Ensure they have the information and a way to contact you to conduct business.
Message
With the users needs in mind, decide upon your unique selling point? More importantly why should they care? Your message should help persuade the visitor. What is your brand and how are you saying what you're saying?
Design
Form will only get you so far. Design your website to be functional. Visually lead the visitor through the site and boost the message.
Leads
Your website needs two things to produce leads – traffic and conversion points. Create a website strategy to attract the right audience with engaging and compelling content for them to consume.
Performance
Technology changes on a daily basis. New screen sizes, different platforms, build a website that can work now and in the future. Make sure to know all the technical aspects of your website. What content management system will work best for you? What marketing automation software are you going to use? These are all important decisions and will affect your website speed, ability to load, and ability to capture leads.
Your website is the core of your online presence, decide where you want to head and start setting smart goals. We put together a SMART goals guide to help start the conversation.
