New Year's Website Resolution
Reflecting back on 2011 reveals all of the great projects that were completed, the quick deadlines that were met, and great ideas that were implemented. It also reminds us of things that were on the to-do list that got put on the back burner. Too often websites get put in the completed projects pile with only a quick update here and there and not much more attention. This New Year's make a resolution to get your website back into fighting shape and learn how to keep it there!
Katy Cowan, editor of Creative Boom an e-magazine and community for the UK creative industries, says 'Don't let your website become stale and boring. Show potential customers that you're a brand or business that's active on the web. It will give the perception that you're an efficient and dependable business.' It's important to continuously update your site to keep it from growing stale. However, even if you haven't been actively updating your site, there is still hope. Make a resolution to get it back in shape starting with these 3 easy steps:
- Review - Go through your site one section at time. Is there something from 2009 or 2010 still listed? Note all outdated content, pictures that are no longer current, old events, and anything else that is no longer relevant. Then make a list of places where you think you can make improvements based on what has happened over the last year. Perhaps there is a new video or a new project that can be highlighted.
- Archive - Take down all of the outdated news stories and events and move them to an archive on your website. You might not want to permanently take them down if they could still be useful for Search Engine Optimization (SEO) or to your users, so archiving things like your news pieces in one location on your website keeps them available but takes them out of the spotlight.
- Update - Using your list from the review, make all of the updates, changes and additions that have been neglected or are needed. Be sure to check directories, news articles, and events to make sure they are current and edit your content so it is as accurate as possible.
Like any New Year's resolution, the success is found when you stick to the plan. The last step of your resolution should be to create a long term plan to keep your site in shape. Consider implementing some of the following ideas:
- Continue to Update - Set a realistic schedule for yourself to update your content and archive old files. Also plan to do a full content review every six months to make sure nothing was overlooked.
- Rotate - Rotating pictures, video, and featured items on your homepage is a good way to keep it fresh and interesting for visitors.
- Additions - Another option to give your website a little boost between full site redesigns is to have a page, section or animation added. This gives users a new place to visit and you a new place to direct inbound traffic.
Keeping your website in shape is a key component to keeping users engaged and improving SEO and rankings. It can also be thought of as a cost savings. Updating your site and adding interesting new elements can lengthen its shelf life by keeping it in line with current trends. So have your website start 2012 out on the right foot - get it back in shape and ready to take on the New Year!