So you have a website launched (or re-launched), SO EXCITING! But, now what? To be honest, we often hear people say “ok, we’re done right?” Well, in some senses yes… but your website is never really “done”. So, this blog is to help you better understand what to expect and plan for after a website launch!
We often use the analogy that websites are a lot like cars. In order to avoid a major breakdown or massive issues, you have to keep up with routine maintenance to keep everything functioning the best they possibly can.
Routine Website Maintenance
Just like you change your oil, rotate your tires, and replace your filter … there’s aspects of your website that should be monitored and maintained for smooth sailing. Refreshing your content, keeping current with search engine optimization (SEO) practices, and being consistent with security updates are among the top three on our list of most important website maintenance tactics. For our clients we offer packages to help you tackle all of these things. Contact us today about how to get started!
1. Content Updates
While the design, layout, and user experience of your website are some of the most crucial pieces, research shows you have 2 to 4 seconds (SECONDS!) to engage visitors by using keywords and phrases they can relate to and get their attention/interest.
Any time you change or update your products and services, create a new downloadable asset, receive a great testimonial, or have updated photos and videos you can update your website. Keeping things fresh with how you’re currently operating your business will help you stay consistent and modern. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a few tips:
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Does your content explain WHY you do what you do and WHY someone should work with you?
- Are you talking about your products and services in the same way your customers are?
- Is what you’re saying compelling without hard selling?
- Are there opportunities for website visitors to learn about you before calling you?
As much as we’d love to promise you they will, current and potential customers will not regularly come to your website, unless they have a reason to – or if you give them a reason. One great marketing tactic for fresh, updated content is adding a blog to your website, sharing news and expertise as well as what you offer in the industry. Frequently updated content pleases search engine algorithms and builds your industry authority. Better search engine ranking = more traffic.
2. Keeping up with SEO
As we mentioned above, search engine optimization (SEO) is something that, over time, will make or break your website. Keeping up to date with how search algorithms function can help ensure the right people find your business, at the right time. Anytime said algorithms are updated, your website can be affected. Unfortunately, this is like a bad cut – the longer you leave it and hope for the best, the worse it can become.
Although SEO changes typically require text and content changes, it can require code or design related changes; having an expert on top of this is invaluable – especially since Google updates their algorithm hundreds – yes, hundreds – times each year. Making time each month to dust off SEO and make updates can help keep everything in tip-top shape.
3. Security Updates
There’s a common misbelief that once you launch a website and you have an SSL, you don’t have to do anything to keep it secure. This is very wrong. One of the single most important tasks of your routine website maintenance is updating the security of the website.
This includes updating software, your CMS (content management system), coded files, and programs. Shape Security found that 80-90% of website hacks include stealing data, information, and private files. Installing the right plug-ins, keeping everything updated, and taking website security extremely seriously are the best ways to keep things under lock and key.
The Risk of “Set It & Forget It”
As natural as it may feel, once you launch your website, you can’t just set it and forget it; there are consequences of not maintaining your website. We recommend making content updates, SEO tweaks, and security updates every month. This helps offset any risk of out-dated information, negative impacts of SEO, and hacking.
When you get a site designed and developed with MAS Media, your website will include the implementation of a tracking code for Google Analytics. Aside from content creation, SEO best practices, and optimal website security, monitoring and reviewing the performance of your site can help keep you the most aware of what types of maintenance are most needed.
If you’re not sure if – or what – regular maintenance is being handled for your website, check with us today! We are here to help.
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