Top 5 Things Most Commonly Overlooked When Redesigning a Small Business Website

A website is the digital storefront for any business, especially small businesses striving to make room for themselves in competitive markets.

Redesigning a website can be an exciting endeavour, often aimed at improving aesthetics, functionality, and user experience.

However, certain crucial elements are often overlooked in the rush to update and upgrade. Here are the top five things most commonly missed when redesigning a small business website:

Mobile Responsiveness:

With the most internet traffic coming from mobile devices, ensuring that a website is fully responsive across various screen sizes is paramount. Yet, surprisingly, many small business websites still lack proper optimization for mobile users. Make sure your website is constructed using responsive website design technology to adjust seamlessly to different devices. It should not matter that your visitor uses a smartphone, tablet, or desktop device. A consistent user experience should be paramount.

Page Speed Optimization:

At a time when users expect instant gratification, slow-loading websites can be a major turnoff. Despite its significance, page speed optimization often takes a backseat during website redesigns. Large image files, unnecessary plugins, and bloated code can significantly impact loading times. Making sure to use proper image compression, turning on browser caching, and minimizing HTTP requests will increase your page speed and help retain visitors.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO):

Building a visually appealing and easy-to-navigate website is only part of the battle. Ensuring your small business website ranks as highly as possible on all search engine results platforms is equally crucial for your project's success. However, SEO considerations are frequently sidelined during website redesigns. Neglecting to optimize meta tags, header tags, and URL structures or failing to conduct keyword research can hinder a website's visibility. Incorporating SEO best practices from the outset can help boost search engine positions and attract more potential customers.

Clear Call-to-Actions (CTAs):

A common oversight during website redesigns is the need for more straightforward and strategically placed call-to-action buttons (CTAs). CTAs prompt visitors to take specific, desired actions, whether it's to make a purchase, sign up for a newsletter, or to contact the business. Failing to incorporate prominent CTAs or burying them amidst cluttered design elements can lead to missed conversion opportunities. Implementing eye-catching, well-positioned CTAs can guide users through the desired journey and ultimately drive conversions.

Accessibility:

Web accessibility is often overlooked, yet it is essential for ensuring inclusivity and compliance with accessibility standards. Ignoring accessibility considerations can result in alienating individuals with disabilities and even legal repercussions. When redesigning a website, prioritize features such as alt text for images, keyboard navigation compatibility, and colour contrast ratios to accommodate users with diverse needs. By embracing accessibility best practices, businesses can broaden their audience reach and demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity.

While redesigning a small business website can be an exciting opportunity to enhance its appeal and functionality, it is crucial to pay attention to these critical elements.

By prioritizing mobile responsiveness, page speed optimization, SEO, clear CTAs, and accessibility, businesses can ensure that their redesigned website not only looks impressive but also delivers a seamless and engaging experience for all users, ultimately driving growth and success in the digital realm.

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