There’s more to a website than meets the eye…
Website using Responsive Template shown on a Desktop Computer
While technologies exist to help even website novices create an online presence, the proliferation of data (over 2.5 quintillion bytes of data published each day) on the Internet makes it exponentially more difficult for non-professionals to develop websites that rank high on search engines and positively impress viewers.
Websites have to look good on a variety of screens. We design websites using a Responsive template, which displays the design and content to fit well on computers, tablets and smart phones.
Responsive Website display on tablet and iPhone
“55% said a poor mobile experience hurt their perception of a brand.”
Google’s new algorithms put more demands on website creators, downgrading sites that are badly structured with non-compliant code, less than optimal navigation and poorly written or duplicate content. Google and other search engines have also taken on “Black hat” SEO techniques, and even downgrade sites that misuse keywords. Add to that the challenges of meeting the expectations of an ever more savvy audience.
Sites that are less than pleasing to look at, difficult to navigate and devoid of useful, relevant and interesting information can not only be ineffective, but detrimental to a business.
“70% said that they would not buy from a poorly designed website.”
We have been publishing websites since 1995, and have experienced first-hand the vagaries of software, hardware and search engines. Today we offer several levels of service to clients at varying levels of time, talent and knowledge:
Full-service
After working with the client to understand how the website fits into their overall marketing plan, researching competitors and gaining insights into the end users (consumers) of the website, we develop, write and optimize the website. We maintain control of the site and do all updates for the client.
Our full service packages include developing and running their Social Media Campaigns, including designing and posting to social sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Google+.
CMS (Content Management System)
Once the site has been designed and published, we provide a written training guide so that the website owner can update content, add images and even add pages to the site. (We remain available on a consulting basis.)
DIY
We have a one-on-one session with clients. We explain the WordPress interface; help them choose the right template; and show them how to customize certain parts of the site, including installed widgets. We also introduce them to the many plug-ins available and help them understand the power of these add-ons. Armed with this information, they can design and self-publish their website.
The client wanted a website to reflect their cutting edge salon. We customized a WordPress template to their specifications and added a gallery of some of the hairstyles they have accomplished, using their customers as models. The salon owner has control to make changes, as she wishes.
This medical practice in Hinsdale Illinois wanted a simple website that introduced their physicians and staff, and presented useful patient information. Office forms can also be downloaded and filled out by patients before they come to the office, making things easier for them.
