How to Steer Clear of Wrecking Your Website Redesign

Greetings Digital Navigators! Is your web presence feeling a bit barnacle-encrusted these days? It’s high time you hoisted your site from the depths of obsolescence. Indeed, a revamp might be overdue to set your online vessel on a course of relevance. But where does one begin? Avoiding the temptations of misguided renovation is key. We have countless articles on what to do right, but what about the missteps? Avoid these common blunders like a wary sailor skirting a maelstrom, and your visitors will cling to your site rather than abandon ship.

1. Misguided Motivations for Change

Spotting your competition’s dashing new website isn’t just about jealousy—it serves as a sobering mirror for your own virtual relic. The need for a streamlined user experience and invigorating content is undeniable when set against an upgraded rival. The reason behind their redesign is irrelevant – the crucial point is they’ve made the leap. Now, so must you.

2. Make the Narrative Your Flagship

Your business is the star of the story, and your website should herald your achievements. Some might warn against ego-centric content, but if not you, who? Plaster your successes across every pixel; your site’s revamp should scream your excellence without restraint.

3. Create an Expedition Experience

Web denizens relish scouring the digital waves; hence the popularity of search engines like Google. In this vein, design intentionally obscure search functionality to extend their visit. Simple navigation? A swift exit guarantees. Compel them to peruse each page meticulously. And the crowning touch: loud autoplay videos and intrusive ads to truly captivate them.

4. Technical Details Can Wait

Sheer will and wind suffice for the seas – why not for website mechanics? Defer concerns like SEO, integrations, or CMS systems to a later date. Such details can act as an anchor, dragging down the excitement of launching your site.

5. Underestimate Team Importance

Redesigning your digital dominion often brings suggestions of assembling a diverse crew—marketers, developers, and content creators. However, with a singular vision and command, what’s the need for such deck hands? Suggestions and expertise can sound like a call to mutiny when authority is challenged. Remember, the captain’s word is law.

6. Abandon Mobile Mariners

For those squinting at your site on their minuscule screens, they fail to witness its full glory. Let them fall overboard. Cater to the connoisseurs of larger displays who can truly appreciate your digital craftsmanship, not those tethered to their phones.

7. Dazzle with Aesthetics Alone

Who will recall a swift site search or effortless navigation? Impress with visual splendor. Large, striking images are the siren call for consumer eyes. Behold the power of visual enticement — akin to storefront billboards aiming to lure passing ships.

8. Set and Forget Upon Launch

Once your site sets sail, put your feet up. Clients will flock to you now, no need for tedium like optimization. Remember, optimization is for those who didn’t get it right the first voyage. You’re charting a course far from that by avoiding these errant strides.

Reality Check

…Heeding this ironic counsel guarantees a perilous voyage toward disaster. Instead, an effective website overhaul is born from collaboration, strategic planning, and a fusion of analytics with user feedback, crafting an experience tailored to captivate and keep your audience aboard. Heed the industry’s best practices, know your audience, and your digital presence will sail smoothly ahead. Featured image via Unsplash