How to Minimize the Cost of a Website Upgrade
Your website is the gateway to the world.
A good or bad identity can be formed very quickly by visitors based on what they first encounter. It is for this reason many companies opt to upgrade their website to look more professional, have it working on all devices and achieve their goals for continued business growth going forward.
Here are the top 5 tips from a leading Auckland Digital Marketing Agency Touch Marketing Ltd based on many hundreds of client interviews and briefs received on the right way to approach a website upgrade.
1. Appoint one project manager within your business
Mixed messages from many people cause additional cost overruns, so have one project manager to liaise with the web development company. Ensure that other staff members and interested parties go through the project manager at all times.
2. Put some thought into content for the upgraded website
If we have learned anything over the years it is that content can delay a project considerably, plus add additional costs if proper planning is not carried out upfront. Take the onus of content away from the web developers. Think carefully about who is going to go over the existing content and either rewrite it or approve it to go onto the new website. It is worthwhile appointing a content champion in your business to manage and liaise with the project manager.
3. Create a feature list in conjunction with your staff
Have a staff meeting and create your wish list, then prioritize these features from 1-10. Ask yourself; Do you really need it and if so why? How will it help you grow your business and will it work for mobile users? Unnecessary features create extra costs and in many cases a good digital agency will be able to advise you on their thoughts about how effective it will be for your business. Don’t waste money on fancy gimmicks that won’t get used.
4. Create a start and end date for the project
Create a start and end date in conjunction with your web developer and ensure you stick to the time frame agreed upon. Get the time frame onto paper and get it signed. It is in the interest of both parties to ensure the project flows nicely.
5. Create some website goals
A website needs goals either sales based or some other form of measuring success. In conjunction with your web developer, create a list of goals based on outcomes and then work these into the project.
A collaborative approach for larger projects is the key to success. A trusted digital agency with transparency and integrity will deliver amazing results and help you achieve your digital goals for this year.
This article was contributed by Craig Connelly, Marketing Director Touch Marketing Ltd. Reach Craig and the team via their website, www.touchmarketing.co.nz.
