Changes in website design are occurring all the time. Some are design or visual in nature and others are due to changes in technology. There are times when you look at a website and it just screams that it was built in 1999. Other times it is not as obvious. Good website design requires current information and technology. We have provided a guide with 12 foolproof signs your website is outdated.
1. It is not mobile
The majority of consumers now go use the web on a mobile device. A site that causes the user to pinch and zoom is frustrating and leads to site abandonment. Also, Google now indexes only the mobile version of websites. That means that if your website is not built for mobile, you will not be included in Google search. Fewer search results may mean lost revenue.
2. It is slow
A study from Behaviour & Information found that it takes about .05 seconds for users to form an opinion that determines whether they will stay or leave your website. With over 60% of network traffic (including website visits) now conducted from mobile devices, websites must be fast so they can squeeze through the limits cellular networks place on data.
Slow-loading websites cost retailers $2.6 billion in lost sales each year.
– eConsult
3. It does not have SSL
SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer and protects both your website and your visitors. If you do not have SSL, your search results will suffer as Google no longer indexes websites that lack SSL. Make sure your new website has an SSL certificate.
4. It contains Flash
The dreaded HTML Flash. Steve Jobs predicted the demise of Flash and Adobe is officially no longer supporting it. And all the better, HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript are much better tools that use far less resources. If your website still has flash, then there is no doubt that your website is outdated.
5. It lacks vital information
Ever go to a website and become frustrated because you are not able to figure out exactly what the company does? Or who they are trying to market to? You do not want to have one of those websites. They lead to frustration and potential customers will just go elsewhere.
Also read: Tips for Using Local Search to Boost Your Business
6. There is no call-to-action
Does your website have a conspicuous and frequent Call-to-Action? The average person spends just a little over five seconds on a homepage. Place your CTA at the top and in numerous locations throughout each page. But be careful to walk the line on being too “salesy” as too many CTAs can confuse users and send them elsewhere.
7. It is difficult to navigate
Navigation is an essential component of the user experience. If possible, avoid including more than 5 links in your main menu. From each page, you can link to relevant subpages to effortlessly guide users through your site. If your website frustrates visitors because they cannot find the information they are seeking, they will leave and go elsewhere.
8. It is not accessible
The American’s with Disabilities Act requires websites be accessible to people of all abilities. An accessible website just makes good business sense. Accessible website design is good design, but moreover, the more people who are able to visit and navigate your website, the more potential new and repeat business.
9. It lacks contact information
Ever go to a website to try to find out how to contact the business and you are not able to easily locate their information? If you run a home-based business, do not need to display your home address or personal mobile number. Tools such as a local postal address and Google Voice will give your website visitors confidence and shield your privacy.
A simple way to boost your site’s credibility is by making your contact information clear.
– Stanford
10. Outdated information or outdated website design
If your website information is outdated then visitors may assume you are no longer in business. Research quoted that is five or more years old should be updated, fonts and color schemes should be current. Websites are no longer lists of links. Design is more visual now with more emphasis on imagery. And clip art is out!
11. It is missing policies
Your website must contain a privacy policy and terms for using the website. You should also have an accessibility policy. These policies are generally to be placed in the footer of your website.
12. It has no social media presence
Social media accounts are additional means for you to sell your products and services. Social media is more in-the-moment than your website. It gives you the opportunity to showcase a timely message and quickly respond to changes in the marketplace. Your customer is likely to visit both your website and your social profiles before deciding whether to visit your store or call to inquire about your services. So make sure they can find you by including your social links on your website and your website URL on your social profiles.
Need help?
Bookmark this guide to 12 foolproof signs your website is outdated as a handy resource. When you are ready for help, we are here.
We work with small businesses that need help with building a new website or updating an existing website. Does your website have out-dated design, slow loading time, or lack of modern website features? We can help! We do website design and development, WordPress Care Plans, and as-needed support with our HelpMe! service.
In addition to the resources in this blog, we have a number of free resources. First is our free WordPress website audit. It is a $299 value that we offer small business owners for FREE! Next, we provide a free no obligation consultation. Schedule a time directly on our calendar. We look forward to assisting you!