Where to Start to Successfully Redesign Your Website

2 min read
May 18, 2015 2:57:47 PM

Redesigning your website can be one of the biggest challenges you face when it comes to marketing your business – but it doesn’t have to be. When you ask the right questions from the start, you can save time, frustration, and money in the long run. Here are some key starting points to successfully redesign your website.

 

  1. Set a main goal for the new website.

 

Before you embark on the redesign process, it’s important to think strategically about your content so you're clear about what you want the new site to achieve. The clearer you get about exactly what actions you want users to take, the easier it will be to design your site framework, and the more satisfied you and your users will be with the results.

 

  1. Know what’s working and what’s not working with your current site.

 

Prior to getting started, take stock of your existing website and assess what you want to keep and what can be tossed. Do you hear any common complaints from customers or other frequent visitors? Consider what elements or content might be created to pique their interest. Be sure to dig into data to find the answers.

 

  1. Determine your “must-haves” vs. the “nice-to-haves.”

 

It’s easy to get distracted by bells and whistles that you don’t actually need. Know that your site will never really be done. Focus on your must haves first and plan to make ongoing changes and optimizations based on user feedback and interaction down the line.

 

  1. Assess how your content management system is working for you.

 

If you already have a CMS, determine whether it’s working for you and meeting all of your needs. If not, it might be worth exploring other content management systems to find a better fit. Technology is constantly evolving and it makes sense to take full advantage of what’s available.

 

  1. Decide whether you are going to do this in-house or outsource.

 

When considering whether to do the redesign in-house vs. hire a pro or agency, it’s important to honestly assess whether it’s the best use of your resources. It can be tempting to want to save money by doing the redesign in-house, but don’t underestimate the value of having someone skilled to objectively guide you through the process.

 

After following these 5 tips, your redesign will be founded on solid ground. Be informed and prepared before you even start redesigning and the outcome will undoubtedly be more successful.

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