reasons to have your own website

 

To establish an Internet presence

In 2008, 16 million households in Great Britain (65 per cent) had internet access (National Statistics, 2009).  Internet access is not limited to computers or laptops; they are many devices that now are internet enabled, for example, games consoles, mobile phone, IPods, etc. Internet access can only increase.  In this sort of environment can a business afford not to have a website?

 

 

To advertise and promote your business 24/7

A business website acts as an online brochure.  It differs from a printed brochure in that it is accessible 24/7, potential and existing customer can access it anytime and anywhere. 

 

To enhance your organisations image

A website can be seen as an online business card for people who are searching for a product or service.  A good website is an excellent way of boosting your image, instilling and making your business look bigger than actually is!

 

To expand your market

If you want to expand your business nationally or internationally the web may be the most cost-effective way to do it.  If your business is specialised or example custom woodworking, dance/music lessons, law, estate agents then having a website is a great way to promote your professionalism in your area of expertise.

 

To make up-to-date product information available

Websites are much easier and cheaper to update than their printed counterparts.  Online information is almost limitless; it is easily kept up-to-date, with news about your products and services.  Printed brochures, leaflets etc, are limited in the amount of information that they can convey, this is not the case with websites, where more comprehensive information can be show. 

 

To improve customer service

In today’s society people have busy lifestyles, when they are looking for information about a product or service, with a few clicks of a mouse then can access information about and product or service.  A website not only provides information about the product or service, but opening hours, pricing and contact details.  Providing an email service will also allow customers to be able to ask questions, and many websites also have a section dedicated to frequently asked questions.  Online forms can be used place orders or make enquiries about products and services.

 

To stay competitive with your competition

Today, more businesses have websites and realise that their existing and potential customer go online to purchase goods and services.  By having a website you are not only protecting your share of the market but you are enhancing it.  The internet also shows your products and services to a global market, a very powerful business card, that contains all your contact details.

 

To reduce advertising costs

Websites have the added advantage in that they are more economical than printed matter, for example you have not printing and distribution costs.  The major cost involved with a website is the initial development cost, after that charges are minimal compared to recurring advertising costs.

 

To gather valuable information about your customers

Using forms, surveys, statistical information and even competitions you can gather information about your existing and potential customers.  This information can then be used in advertising and marketing campaigns to target particular customers. 

 

To sell online

Many small to medium size businesses do not want a facility to sell their products and services online.  However, many internet users are increasingly conducting business online, and many businesses may have to consider this eventually.  There is a range of online secure ordering and payment processing systems that are available at inexpensive rates which will encourage more businesses to take this step into online sales.