If you are looking for a Calgary Web Design (or a Web design anywhere else in the world) , you will need to consider if your Web site will emerge as a real Web presence.
A website is, in essence , a single entity on the Internet . It has a unique address , localized navigation , some kind of Web design surrounding the site content and is basically a standalone resource . The general practice of website development from the 1990’s into the new millennium was to create a website as a digitized, online version of a company brochure . In fact, many companies simply copied their brochure content over from print to their new site . Of course, the Web changes quickly and so do search engines and marketing techniques . Add these factors that cutting edge design and functions become more affordable or even free , the basic Web site becomes obviously outdated .
What are some signs of an outdated Web site?
1. Out of Date Web Design Elements – most web designers currently design for a 1024 wide screen resolution, and since older sites were built to an 800 pixel wide screen width, just seeing one built to this width can create the impression of an older design. Older designs are also subject to much less functionality since they are based on a more limited technology. The best scenario is a web presence that is refreshed visually with a newer web design, has updated coding and functionality and has current content with past content moved to an archives section.
2. Stagnant Content – an obvious factor is content that is expired or has the latest news release from months to years ago . This goes for broken external links to other sites that no longer exist…or have been updated.
3. Dated copyright Notice – enough said.
4. Little or No Communication Functionality – older sites rely on email and maybe forms , which works well, these are standard levels of communication on the Web . However, newer sites can now offer “Live Support”, forums and interactive flash media to their gamut.
5. Little or No Search Engine Marketing – chances are if the site is not updated regularly or built to newer standards the owners aren’t going to be out promoting it. This will include organic search engine optimization and external paid ad campaigns such as Google Adwords .
So, if you have a website that sounds like this, you will want to read on to see how to turn your Web site into a Web presence.
The difference in a Web presence is the difference between the wall flower at a party and the chain of people doing the conga around the entire room to the beat of the music.
A Web presence is considered a living document as it expands and gains attention and gets people involved.
To take your current web site or if you are planning a new Website from the start , you would benefit from following these key features to make your website a bonefide Web presence :
The Web presence:
1. Have a unique web design that is uncrowded, professional and attractive , but does not inhibit the navigation nor the accessibility or flow of content .
2. The design should not limit expansion , but rather encourages it – it should easily be able to have new pages and functionalities added . Think about a blog or forum – these tools are built to expand and manage new content easily .
3. Intuitive Menus and Supporting Navigation are used to define which are passive sections , which are active, which are dynamic or static and which will expand . Perfect navigation will allow for the user to access all pages from each page , with the least amount of click throughs . Clear logical grouping of content into section/page/subpage is key .
4. Written content on the site is unique and crafted for the Web , not just copied from a Print document or technical paper . These types of documents are best left as they are, converted into PDF and made available for download , leaving the Web content to be search engine optimized and edited to flow from one page to the next .
5. Add Reasonable Functionality – you don’t need an “Live Online Support” function if you don’t plan to use it . Determine who will do the site updates , either a Webmaster or a trained editor who can manage the site using a CMS . If you have a portfolio, use a dynamic gallery to show it off . If you enjoy writing, then get a blog, just learn how to use it and keep posting consistently . If you want to start e-commerce, be prepared to learn how to manage the catalog and admin areas .
6. Search Engine Optimization – starts with the organic results generated by how the site is built, how accessible it and its content is, and how it relates to other websites. Then get your site manually listed in the top search engines and directories and start building reciprocal or back links to your site to help increase exposure and build popularity.
Once your site is live on the Web, you need to:
1. Continually review and develop effective Search Engine Optimization
2. Expand into e-commerce, so your site can make money for you.
3. Start to develop targeted ads using CPC paid listing campaigns like Adwords, Adbrite, etc.
4. Build your email opt-in list by delivering useful information and special offers.
5. Survey your existing customers to gain user experiences and update your Calgary Web site accordingly.
6. Build your website to be an interactive and unique experience.
7. Explore how to use different media such as graphic design/print, vehicle signage, mobile, radio, in-person networking to raise your Web presence even more .
8. Update your content regularly and find related niche sites and post on any blogs and groups for your key search terms and links back to your site.
A Web presence is a greater influence than a "standalone" website because it has people actively involved in these key areas .
A website is good as a channel for your regular business model , but a Web presence can take your success to a whole new level of communication and separate revenue stream.
Are you a Calgary business looking for a new or revitalized Web Design?
If so, please contact Calgary Web Design Team at www.blinddrop.com for total Web development and Photography services.
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