Though the phrase “the only constant is change” may sound cliché, the sentiment behind the saying holds true. Ignoring this simple mantra when it comes to website design can be a blow to your business. Online, more than almost anywhere else, things are changing always. While features of design seem cutting-edge one minute, the next minute the same design aspects have swung to the side of tackiness. More confusingly, it’s not always the design that’s pushed a website out of fashion, but rather an aspect of the world of keyword hits and audience changes. Which begs the question – how on earth are you supposed to know when it’s time to update your website?
Consider the following to know whether it’s time for your site to have an upgrade.
Your Market Has Changed
It shouldn’t come as a surprise that the same sales tactics aren’t going to work on Gen Z and Millennials that work on Gen X and Baby Boomers. If you’ve recently launched a new line of products or services that are aimed toward a certain group of people or are looking to include a broader market than you had previously, it’s time to update.
You’ve Rebranded
Whenever your company changes, your website should change, too. There isn’t much to be said for a company branding overhaul that doesn’t extend online, especially in our largely digital world. If your company has gone through significant change, whether it be management or mission statement, color scheme or product line, it likely means it’s time for a website change to reflect those updates.
You’ve Added New Products or Services
Making a big deal out of new products and services calls a lot of attention from both returning loyal clients and from clients who are interested in what is newly offered. A website update can highlight the changes you’ve made and may make the difference between an interested browser and a new customer. Similarly, if nothing is new but you notice a certain aspect of the business is getting significant IRL attention, it’s safe to say that your online presence would benefit from that update. Keeping your website trending with your most popular products and services is always a good idea.
You’ve Noticed a Downtick in Traffic
If you’re monitoring your website traffic and see a significant lull, notice lower average times spent on your page, or never saw significant traffic to begin with, you could likely benefit from a website overhaul, complete with new SEO strategies (Search Engine Optimization). Designers can work with you to pinpoint why your website is experiencing low traffic. The right website design team will not only update your aesthetics but ensure your site gets the attention of the search engine bots that help your business land on the SERPs – search engine results page. This is especially important when….
Google Rolls Out An Updated Algorithm
The kings and queens of the internet are no dummies about keeping a website viable, so when they introduce an updated algorithm like they did in January of 2020, it behooves us plebeians to follow suit. Keeping up with changes that Google implements ensures the hard work you’ve put into maintaining and running your website doesn’t get lost at the bottom of searches. The SEO tactics you’ve been implementing from a few years ago may not be quite so viable, depending on what the new coding looks for when users search. By updating whenever Google does, you’re keeping your site viable without losing your brand recognition.
Call Arca Interactive for Your Website Update
Ultimately, there isn’t really a hard and fast rule about how often you should update your website. If you’re a fast-growing business, your website should reflect it. If you’re more established, updates may expand your audience. No matter what category you fall under, Arca Interactive is here to help with your website needs.