Does my business really need a website?

Sadie Knight of Glassraven web design outlines how a website can help your business.

Some businesses may not need a website. If your business is booming from word of mouth recommendations, and you have more custom that you could possibly ever begin to be complete, then you may not need a website. But for the rest of us there are a vast number of reasons why a website is a worthwhile investment. And, if you're busy, a website can save you some time and money too.

A website is constantly promoting your business. An online store never closes so you can generate sales 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Potential customers can find your contact details in an easy and convenient way, whenever they require.

A well designed website can promote and strengthen your company image, your customers will be able to immediately find out who you are and what you have to offer. If they do not find you online, there is always the danger that they will find your competitors. Your own domain name (www.yourcomany.com) will establish a strong online identity and allows you to set up email addresses specific to your company. jane@yourcompany.com appears more professional than a hotmail or yahoo address. Email allows easy, effective and professional communication across the world.

Your website will display all that your business offers in one convenient location for customers to browse at will. There is no need for them to wait for brochures to be delivered or a salesperson to call. This will cut down on costs for your business in printing, postage and wages. Posting answers to frequently asked questions on your website can help your customers no end. They will know exactly what they need to before entering into a business transaction with you. Most importantly, you will save time answering the same questions over and over. Carrying this sort of information on your site ends up being more convenient for your customer and your company.

The advantages of owning a website are many - you can inform people of what you'd like them to know and show them what you'd like them to see. You get the advantages of a wide, or even a worldwide audience, and costs can be low compared to other forms of advertising and brochures.

 
About the Author

This article is part of a series written by Sadie Knight of Glassraven. The full series of articles is available on the Glassraven website.

Glassraven was set up in February 2002, offering quality websites at affordable prices to small-medium businesses and start-ups.

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