When should you revamp a web site? If you have a web site that looks outdated you need to either revamp and redesign or simple add a few new features that will enhance the site's appeal.
Examples of site's needing a revamp:
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/subjects/mammals/dog/http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/Examples of site's that are visually appealing and updated:
http://www.dog.com/http://www.thedogisland.com/ this site is only visually appealing due to the nice picture that has an almost transparent feel to it. Without this, it would qualify for a revamp. But it is little additions like this picture that adds an updated touch to the site. It's not just a normal picture...it's a picture that has been enhanced using an imaging program.
If you're site is still in FRAMES you definitely need a revamp... WAIT! I take that back... a REDESIGN! You know you're stuck in frames if you have two sides to your page that usually involves scrolling (where your navigation always seems there on the page).
Also, if you have large print on your site that is overpowering to viewers, you need a revamp. A business shouldn't go for over-powering images... they should be simple and easy on the eyes.
If you have poor navigation...meaning that it's confusing to get where you want to go... you definitely need a revamp.
What about the square look? Too many blocks with text in it can give a new site an old feel... watch out for those. If you used a site builder... REVAMP and REDESIGN!!! Use a professional. It will make all the difference.
If your site experiences a Left Aligned page REVAMP! Today, since the screen sizes on computers keep getting larger ( 17" and up) there is all the more reason to center your site. Normal resolutions are 800x600 but 17" screens use a 1024x768... what does this mean? Most of the normal resolutions are used in web design to accomodate the NORM. This means that on screens larger than 800x600 there will be too much white space on the right of the screen... it will DEFINITELY make your site look out of place.
If your site is hosted with a company but has yet to be designed... DESIGN IT! There is no excuse to have a "coming soon!", "parked free", or "under construction" page open when you enter the URL. At least put your own WELCOME page up for the time being. Customize it at least!
If your site has neverending scrolling windows... GET RID OF THEM! It's annoying and not printer friendly (in most cases).
Last but not least... get rid of boring designs. If it looks like everyone elses design, it's not doing it's job. Don't go with "cookie-cutter" or uniform sites... site builders create these types of sites and should be avoided. Go with a professional who can give your site a unique look... or if nothing else, purchase (outright) a unique template and customize it yourself....but buy it at the price that gives you sole ownership of the design: otherwise it's not worth it.
ARTICLE BY:
ANNA DALEA
OWNER OF
ERT WEBSITE SOLUTIONS
