By Many intrepid East Texas business owners got savvy to the new developments in web technology all the way back in the late '90s and early '00s. And in many cases, they haven't updated their websites ever since.
You might think that’s okay if they started out on a solid foundation. But did you know that the average lifespan of a well-made website is only 3 to 7 years?
It's true. The Internet is constantly evolving – and your website should be too.
So if you're one of those early web pioneers, or simply a business owner who wants a facelift, here are some goals you should keep in mind for your web design:
Keep it Relevant
Is your business the exact same as it was when you started out?
Like most businesses, you've probably gone through some changes. Just think: 2007 was ten years ago.
So if you've rebranded or changed your products or services in recent years, your website should reflect those changes.
Incorporate Social Media
Social media outreach has never been more important for businesses of all sizes than it is today. That means your website needs to be deeply integrated with your social media accounts – whether that's Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, or otherwise.
A well-designed website does this with strategic placement of buttons connecting content across nearly every page to those social platforms, allowing your visitors to share your website with a simple click of the mouse or press of a finger.
Master SEO
Here's a quick test you can perform yourself in less than a minute. Go to your nearest online search engine (Google always works!) and search for your company name, products, or services.
Do you see your website listed in the top results?
If not, it's time you put more of an emphasis on SEO. Your website copy and content should be strategically written to place your brand at the top of any search!
Beat the Competition
In order for your business's web presence to convert more leads to sales than your competitors, it needs to be responsive (optimized for mobile) and easy to navigate. Your visitors should know immediately what you sell and how to pay for it.
Otherwise, they just might look elsewhere.
The point of a solid business website is manifold. If you want yours to keep up with the times and deliver you a solid return on investment, maybe you should consider a redesign with these goals in mind. Contact GroupM7 today to find out more about how a new website can help your East Texas business flourish.
Aaron Dunn
Aaron is a writer by trade with several years of professional experience under his belt. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. Before joining the Group, he worked as a freelancer and tech reviewer in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Aaron currently lives in Pittsburg, TX. 
