Check-list for a great website

Check-list for a great website

We all know that the internet is the best way for new clients to find you and a great way to showcase what you do! If you are not seeing results with your current website you may need a update or a new website altogether. See the checklist below to find out where you are going wrong.

1. Design
   Is the look of the website eye catching? does it match up to the standards of your competitors? The design is the first thing a visitor will see and this can be the factor which gains or looses a potential client. If you are using a pay per click advertising service, the look of a website could result in a high bounce rate which is very costly. We advise to avoid using images that are obviously stock pictures, real photos are best. Ensure that images are relevant to the website and content. Keep your website modern as it is clear to see a website that was made years ago, if you cannot invest in your brand and online presence why would anyone else show interest?

2. Purpose
   Do people know what you do from your home page? There is nothing worse than going to a website and not knowing if the company is what you are looking for, due to lack of information. A services page is standard to go into detail about what you provide to your customers however instant reassurance is key.

3. Content
   Content is important for 2 reasons. Firstly, the text on your website contributes to your search engine ranking which helps people find your site. Secondly, you need to make your products or services sound appealing to encourage sales. Keep your site updated with current information.
   
   
4. Responsive
   Does your website look good on your mobile? More and more people are accessing information via their phones, in response to this a lot of companies opt for a mobile app or a responsive website which scales down for mobile and tablet devices.
   
   
5. Functionality and Errors
   It is important to prevent errors on your website including spelling mistakes, technical errors, repetitive content and broken links. This can make your company appear to be incompetent. The website should be easy for users to navigate around. Test out the website as if you were using it for the very first time or get the opinions of non bias others.
   
   
6. SEO and Social Media
   When you have a great website it is pointless unless people can find it! Social Media such as Facebook and Twitter are great to get your brand and website out there. SEO (Search engine optimisation) is critical especially for smaller companies that are less known. SEO helps websites rank higher on Google, Yahoo and Bing for related keywords. So people can find your company based on the services you provide. 
   
   
7. Analytics
   It is always good to find out how people are finding your website in order for you to know which form of marketing is working. Using Google Analytics you can find out where your visitors are coming from and how much time they spend on your site. If people are not spending much time on our website, you need to think about where your website is going wrong.

3. Data Capture
   If you are able to get your potential customers to fill out a contact form or sign in, this is a great way to follow up as they may not be willing to leave contact details when they call. This is also a great way to build up a database of customers that you can send marketing information to. You must let customers know how you will be using their information whether it be a privacy policy on the website or a opt in to marketing check box.

If you can tick all these boxes you are on your way to online success.

MetApps are on hand if you need help or advice on your website, consultations and quotes are free! MetApps offer very competitive prices to suit all budgets. 0121 663 0119