Why is it important to have a quality website?
People use the internet on a daily basis. They search the internet for businesses, products, services, shopping and information. When they search for something you offer or specifically for your business, you want to show up and not just show up- but show up and look good.
Having a good looking website is important because your website is often your first impression you give potential customers. If they found you through a search, social media, an advertisement or through a link a friend gave them, your website will be your first point of contact with them. Before they even see you or speak to you they will see your website. You want that first impression to be a good one that they remember and that makes you stand out from the competition.
Think of your website as your digital storefront and showroom. People are looking at it and are forming an opinion about the business based on it. So make it look good!
What makes a good website?
A quality website looks good in all browsers including Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome and Firefox. You should browser test your website to make sure it looks right and functions properly across all browsers and also ensure that your website is responsive (works on mobile devices).
A quality website is clean, well-organised, easy to navigate, clear/concise, modern (in terms of style and layout), functional, branded, and motivates the visitor to do business with you or purchase a product or service. Information such as opening and closing hours, location, and contact info should be extremely easy to find. If you have social media profiles, widgets linked to these profiles should be present. People want a quick solution to their problem or a quick answer to their question. Make it easy for them. They also want to look at something that is visually appealing. Give them that with a quality website, with precise and clear information and images.