So – here’s the bad news. Your website won’t last forever. We know – we’re gutted too.
When you invest and build your beautiful, bespoke website, you want it to last as long as possible. Whilst most web design agencies will deliver regular updates and future-proofing as a priority (us included!), that isn’t going to be enough years and years down the line.
The question you’re probably all thinking, however, has quite a simple answer. And we’re going to explain it.
What’s the average lifetime of a website?
Between 3 to 5 years. Obviously, this is open to change depending on how well the website is put together during the initial build. Also, if you’ve got a web design team that is regularly installing security and content management system updates – you’ll be guaranteed to keep your website at its best for as long as possible.
Now, there is no reason your website can’t last longer. But after a period of 3-5 years, you’re likely to spend more time fighting fires than you are enjoying your website. Between changes in operating systems, keeping your website mobile-friendly, digital marketing best practices and search engine optimisation – you’re going to be seeing a lot of flaws begin to appear within the site.
This is when it’s time to consider a website redesign. But here’s why that’s not always a bad thing.
What technology we were using 5 years ago
The world of technology moves fast. If you don’t stop to look around once in a while, you might just miss it.
Whilst we will always take the opportunity to paraphrase Ferris Bueller, this is actually very accurate. Often we are looking forwards, not backwards. So – let’s do that. You had your website built in 2017. It’s still looking great, but that’s 5 years ago now. (We know, right?)
Well, in 2017 the iPhone X had just been released. The Intel Core i9 was the highest range processor available for computers (now on 12), and Apple wouldn’t release their now world-beating M1/M2 chip for another 3 years.
Why does this matter? Well, the technology that WAS amazing – quickly becomes defunct. Websites can be adapted, but a time will come when what you’re working with just isn’t cutting the mustard anymore. That’s when it’s time to update your website.
How you’ll know an update is necessary
These are the telltale signs to watch for that will mean your company website may need a spruce up.
– More frequent updates. We will take care of updates for our customers, but eventually, you’ll end up having problems caused by integrations and plugins as your site becomes antiquated.
– More calls to our support. If stuff is going wrong more often than it was before, your website may be reaching the end of its life.
– A vast difference between you and your competitors. If their websites all look better than yours, then you’ll need to consider an update so you’re not missing out on business.
So what happens next?
If you’ve got someone you can trust to talk to about what your website actually needs – great. They’ll be able to offer an honest opinion as to whether an update is required or if your website is still pulling its weight.
However, if you’re lacking that person or just want to discuss where your digital presence is right now – we’re happy to help.
With signs that the economy may be entering into a turbulent period, it’s really important that you’ve set your business up to get the most from the online market. That might mean an update is required so you can stay ahead of the game.
Ready to talk to an expert? Give us a call and we can chat through your current site and see if there’s any room for improvement.
