Thanks to quick fixes like Squarespace and Wix, developing a website may seem like a simple task. But when it comes to creating a functional site for your business, cookiecutter templates just aren’t going to cut it. Here are five common myths about website development.
1. Web Development is the Same As Web design
Although both jobs work hand-in-hand, it’s important to note that they serve very different functions. Web design is primarily concerned with the look and feel of a website. While creating a layout, designers take into consideration how the user will interact with the site, or the User Experience (UX).
Web development focuses on the building of a functional website interface while using software such as HTML, CSS, and JS. This is not to say that a developer isn’t knowledgeable about design and interactions. They must understand how to choose and apply the best technology to deliver the desired look, feel, and experience that the designer put together.
2. Anybody Can Create a Website
Just like professional athletes competing at the highest level, a website developer can make the construction of a website look easier than it really is. Accessible templates have led to the appearance that website development can be done solely with domain rights and a few clicks.
But creating a site that converts visitors into customers takes more than a template. A good custom website that’s designed to convert prospects into customers requires designers and developers with a specific skill set, deep knowledge, and experience with coding and software.
3. Website Development is Quick
Custom websites not only require talent but also the time to gather information. There’s no website that fits all businesses, so the discovery meeting helps our team parse out what the client needs to create a site that works for them.
In our initial discovery sessions, BigWheel dives into the goals of the client before starting the design process.
- What is the core of your business?
- What do you want from your website?
- Who is your target market?
Typically during this meeting, the client comes to new conclusions.
Once the website development phase is underway, developers have to ensure that the website works smoothly. They also make sure that the website provides optimum user experience, which is difficult to achieve, but can be attained over time. Developers are human, so if they are rushed to finish, human error could ruin the effectiveness of the site.
4. Website Developers are the Only Ones Involved
SEO optimization is a crucial part of building an effective website.
A site could be perfectly constructed and designed, but without optimization potential visitors won’t be able to find it. Before the launch of a website, it’s key that it can be found via Google and Bing with specific search terms. The better the site is optimized, the more likely it is to show up in searches and drive more traffic. In addition, adding the site to Google Analytics will allow insight into where visitors are coming from and how they use the website.
5. Once the Website is Built, it’s Finished
When a client comes to us for a new website, we often tell them that it’s similar to opening a new location: It’s really just the beginning.
You have to staff it and make sure it stays current. Websites are similar to new store openings in the fact that they require constant upkeep. Technology grows at a breakneck pace, so developers have to keep up with the latest software and updates. In addition, developers have to be on the lookout for bugs which can pop up and cause problems to the functionality of the site.
Your website is frequently the first impression for your potential customers. Make sure your team has the skills you need to make it effective and beautiful!
If you’re considering building a new website, get in touch with us.