Over time, small business website start to show their age. To stay on top of your game, you need to take an active role in reviewing your website's graphics, content and technology on a regular basis. So, is it time for a website redesign? The following seven clues are strong indicators your small business website is in need of a serious website redesign.

1. If your small business website is badly outdated, it's time for a website redesign.

Above all else, if your small business website hasn't seen a good scrubbing in years, you need a website redesign. Websites need periodic updates to remain relevant. So if you haven't updated your site with new product images, service information, graphics, photos and other content in the last few years, you need to redesign your website.

2. If your small business website is winded trying to keep up with competitors, you need a website redesign.

Just because you aren't web savvy, certainly does not mean your customers aren't. It is mission critical your website  provides relevant content that is continuously updated and differentiates you from the competition. Take a look around at the content, graphics and branding of your competitors' websites. Is your site at the top of the heap? If your small business website doesn't stand out and brand your business, it's time for a website redesign.

3. Does your website provide a unified brand image that presents your business as the solution? If not, it's time for a website redesign.

For many small business owners, your website will create the first impression customer's have of your business. It's crucial you present a strong visual image for customers to connect with. Play into the emotional needs, dreams and goals of your audience. An amateur small business website or template site is a sure way to crater your image. If your website needs a brand image overhaul, you need to redesign your website.

4. Are you using a website template? If so, there's no ifs ands or buts about it, you need a website redesign.

Sure, free and cheap website templates can save you money on the front end, but it's going to cost your dearly on the back end. Small business websites using FrontPage, Publisher or clipart graphics need to be redesigned. The above technologies will seriously damage your credibility and professionalism. Step up and run with the big dogs! Web design advancements have leapt past these templates and made them virtually obsolete. If you're still using a starter website or free website template, it is definitely time for a website redesign.

5. Is your small business website able to grow with your business? If your site is constricting your online presence, it's time for a website redesign.

Is your website one big colossal headache every time you need to add new content? If you have to redesign large parts of your website to accommodate minor website updates, you need a website redesign. New technologies are making it easier than ever for small business owners to take control of managing their website with little technical experience. Ask your web designer about using a Content Management System, such as WordPress when redesigning your website.

6. If your website's content has more wrinkles than your great grandmother, it's time for a website redesign.

No one likes to read the latest news, only to realize they've been duped. If your website content is badly outdated, and it no longer holds relevance, your customers aren't going to want to read it. And search engines won't like it either! If the majority of your small business website content is outdated, it's a strong indication you need to bite the bullet in favor of a website redesign.

7. Is your small business website built like a catacomb? If yes, it's time for a website redesign.

We all hate the moment when we realize, "I'm lost... I haven't a clue where the hell I am!" The same holds true when it comes to your website. If customers can't find what they're looking for, quick and easily, you need a website redesign. Unlike the offline world, if a potential customer leaves your website because they got lost... they'll leave with their wallet and never come back.

Copyright 2009 Formulis, Inc.  All rights reserved.

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