Almost every large business will have an online presence. However, creating your own website isn’t as simple as it seems. Aside from securing the domain name, there are a few more factors you should focus on.
Design
The look of your website should reflect your company, product, or service. It can be as whimsical or formal as it needs to be — as long as it coincides with how the market views your business. Make sure your site can be easily read and navigated. A well-made site should have a clear overview of your products and services as well as enough information to answer the most basic questions of your potential customers.
Stick to one theme and color palette — and try not to have too many distracting elements in your website. Don’t scrimp on developers — and opt for one who can make significant updates and changes periodically. Your content should be precise, with no spelling or grammatical errors. Small lapses won’t reflect well on your business and will make it seem less serious or even unprofessional.
Security
A website can give your business a much-needed online presence — but it will also expose it to certain dangers. Every online business will need some sort of cybersecurity system. Managed protection can protect you from DDOS attacks, computer viruses, hacks, and spying. Hackers have found exploits in even large corporations like Facebook and Verizon — a testament to the importance of a dedicated and secure system. Of course, your business may not afford (or need) those same levels of protection — however, you still need appropriate levels of security.
Consider containing your website in the cloud — separate from your servers for optimum protection. Even if hackers manage to find a way into your website, all they could access would be superficial. You can also create backups of your site if you want to regularly preserve its content. Backups will make it a cinch to put your site in order — if ever it is defaced. You should opt for higher levels of security if you want to maintain online transactions. You’ll be safeguarding the information of your clients — so a little extra protection should be warranted.
Access
A website provides your clients with another avenue to transact with your business. Aside from having your products and services clearly listed, your website should also be able to handle credit card transactions or alternative payment options like Paypal, Payoneer, Skrill, Stripe, or Venmo. Online transactions are becoming the preferred option for a growing number of Americans.
The trend is reflected around the world with more than $3.5 trillion in online global shopping sales in 2019. Your website should have the ability to manage inventory and sales — and your company should have the logistic capabilities to deliver the goods to your customers.
A good website can expand your business significantly — but it needs more than a bit of work. Manage the look and feel of your website and make sure to acquire the necessary security and safeguards to protect your business as well as your clients.
