Why Consider a Website Redesign?
Over time, websites can become outdated, not just in appearance but also in functionality and compliance. A redesign can address several critical areas:
Accessibility Compliance
Ensuring your site meets standards like the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) is crucial for inclusivity.
Outdated Branding
A re-brand is a perfect time to re-evaluate and re-design your website. Start fresh!
Improved User Experience (UX)
A well-structured site enhances navigation, making it easier for visitors to find information and engage with your content.
Enhanced SEO Performance
A redesign offers an opportunity to optimize your site for search engines, increasing visibility and reach.
Key Steps to a Successful Website Redesign
1. Conduct a Comprehensive Site Audit
Begin by evaluating your current website’s performance. Identify which pages receive the most traffic, have the highest engagement, and rank well in search engines. Tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console can provide valuable insights.
2. Define Clear Objectives
Establish what you aim to achieve with the redesign. Objectives may include improving accessibility, increasing donations, enhancing user engagement, or better showcasing your programs and services.
3. Engage Stakeholders
Involve key stakeholders—staff, volunteers, and even members of your audience—in the planning process. Their insights can help ensure the new design meets the needs of all users.
4. Prioritize Accessibility
Ensure your new website adheres to accessibility standards. This includes using appropriate color contrasts, providing alt text for images, and ensuring keyboard navigability. Accessibility not only broadens your audience but also aligns with legal requirements.
5. Maintain SEO Equity
Preserve your site’s search engine rankings by:
- Mapping Existing URLs: Keep the same URL structure where possible.
- Implementing 301 Redirects: Redirect old URLs to new ones to retain search engine rankings.
- Updating Meta Tags: Ensure title tags and meta descriptions are optimized and relevant.
6. Optimize for Mobile Devices
Design your website with a mobile-first approach. Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in its rankings, and a significant portion of users access websites via mobile devices.
7. Test Before Launch
Before going live, thoroughly test your website for functionality, load times, and compatibility across different browsers and devices. Address any issues to ensure a smooth user experience.
8. Post-Launch Performance Review
After launching your redesigned website:
- Monitor Performance: Use analytics tools to track user behavior, page performance, and conversion rates.
- Gather Feedback: Encourage users to provide feedback to identify areas for improvement.
- Regular Updates: Keep your content fresh and up-to-date to maintain engagement and SEO rankings.
Our website designs
Check out our web design work to see how we applied the principles discussed in this post and get in touch if we can help you re-build your website to the next level!
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