As a website builder, I often get asked the same question over and over again: “What should I consider before building a website?” And while my initial answer is usually a mix of technical jargon and excited hand gestures, I realize that not everyone speaks “geek”. So, let’s break it down into the top 5 things you need to think about before hitting the “build” button.
- Purpose What’s the point of your website? Are you trying to sell products, provide information, or just show off your cat’s Instagram account? Knowing the purpose of your website will help you determine the type of content you need to include, the design elements that are most important, and the functionality that is necessary.
Example: If you’re building a website for your pet store, you’ll want to focus on showcasing your products, highlighting your services, and providing contact information.
- Target audience Who are you trying to reach with your website? Are you targeting cat lovers, pet store owners, or anyone who just likes a good laugh at your cat’s expense? Understanding your target audience will help you determine the language, tone, and style of your website.
Example: If you’re targeting cat lovers, you’ll want to include lots of cute cat photos and videos, and maybe even a blog about cat care tips.
- Budget Building a website can be expensive, so it’s important to have a budget in mind. This will help you determine what type of website you can afford to build and what features you can include.
Example: If you have a limited budget, you may need to opt for a simpler design, fewer images, and less functionality. But hey, at least you’ll still have a website!
- Competitors Take a look at what your competitors are doing. What works well for them? What doesn’t? How can you differentiate yourself from them?
Example: If your competitors have a lot of product descriptions and photos, but not much information about their company, you can focus on highlighting your company’s values and history to set yourself apart.
- Timing When do you need your website up and running? This will help you determine the timeline for your project and ensure that you have enough time to complete it.
Example: If you’re opening a new pet store in 6 months, you’ll want to have your website completed at least a month or two before that so you can start promoting it.
Building a website can be an exciting experience (especially for new entrepreneurs looking to establish their online presence), but it’s also important to consider these 5 things before you start. Trust me, it’s better to think about these things before you start building, rather than after you’ve already invested time and money into a website that doesn’t meet your needs.
