KISS
The simple website request
The single most requested type of website that small business owners ask us to build is a "simple website". Although this request may define the owner's short term and long term on-line goals, it does not define their customer's expectations. It is important for small business owners to understand that, for the most part, their website is an extension of their customer service. Not having a website or having a website that lacks pertinent information is not only a disservice to both their existing clients and potential clients, it also translates into loss revenue.
Consumers expect certain features and information when visiting your website. When your website lacks the information that the visitor is looking for, it demonstrates to them that you have not given much thought to their needs. Having said that, this does not mean that you need to move your entire business operation on-line but you do need to satisfy your clients minimal expectations.
For example, if you were looking at a mortgage company's website, you would expect to see some financial calculators, the current rates for various loans, and some way for you to either schedule an appointment with one of their loan officers or to start filling out the required paperwork.
Another example, if you are visiting a retailers website you would minimally expect to see some of the products that they sell and whether or not if the item is available. Displaying anything less than the aforementioned results in the potential client moving on to the next retailer that does provide this information.
Most people will surf the web later in the evening. Once they have come home from work, had dinner with their family, and maybe not even until they have put their kids to bed. By this time, your store/office is closed and you are most likely home yourself. This is the time when your website delivers your customer service the most and your website needs to be up to snuff to handle the demands of your visitors. Your visitors have limited time to surf around and they want to be able to find the information that they are looking for as quickly as possible. Simply stating on your website that you sell/offer widgets and that they should call you or visit your store/office for further information is not enough. The more information and tools that you provide for your customers to utilize, increases the probability that they will purchase from you and not your competitor across the street.
