With how it has become the new normal for consumers to simply go online to look into where they can avail products or services they need, businesses who want to keep up with their competition are now faced with the need to create their online presence — to tap into the vast market found online.
Because of this, businesses are slowly starting to realise that aside from their operational costs, one of the things that should be prioritised during budget allocation is their digital marketing strategies.
Take note that digital marketing strategies don’t always have to be big and all-out. Theysimply have to be able to serve the purpose your business has. With this, the first step to building your online presence would be to create your website.
Doing this can help you begin your digital journey and bring your business online!
Why Are You Creating Your Website?
Before starting to build your website, it’s important to first define what you want it to achieve and what features it needs.
Do you want a basic site to share information, an online store to sell products, or something more advanced? Knowing these goals will help you plan your budget and decide how to develop your site.
Once you define your goals, the next thing to do is to get on with creating your website. Here’s our step-by-step guide to help you get started and maximise your budget!
Budget-Friendly Website Creation
Choosing the Right Platform
Choosing a website platform that’s easy to use and doesn’t cost much is crucial — especially if you’re a business that is just starting up.
Platforms such as WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace provide ready-made designs and tools that make building a website easier, even if you’re not an expert coder. This saves money and makes it easier to expand your site as your business expands.
Designing Your Website with Simplicity and Impact
Make sure your website visually appeals to your target audience!
Choosing a simple yet effective design not only makes it easier for users but also saves money. Use clean layouts, easy-to-use navigation, and attractive images that match your brand. Use free or cheap design tools and templates to keep your website looking good without spending too much.
Read: From Sketch To Screen: The Website Design Process Explained
Content Creation and Optimisation
No matter the design, the layout or the functionality, it is important to note that your website is nothing without effective content.
Creating great content is the key to your website’s success. Write interesting text that tells your brand’s story well and includes important words for SEO (Search Engine Optimisation). This way, you’ll get more visitors, and your site will rank better in search engines.
Integrating Essential Features
Make it functional and easy to navigate for your audience!
Focus on making your website work well by adding key features like contact forms, social media links, and mobile-friendly designs. These things make it easier for users to interact with your site without costing a lot. Use free or cheap tools to add more features if you need them.
Testing and Iteration
Testing your website on various devices and web browsers is important to make sure it works well for everyone.
Find and fix any problems quickly to keep your site professional and trustworthy. Make changes based on what users say and how they use your site to make it work better over time.
Marketing and Launch Strategy
A strategic launch and marketing plan are essential to drive traffic to your new website.
Utilise social media, email marketing, and SEO strategies to maximise visibility within your target audience. Leverage cost-effective digital advertising channels, such as Google Ads or Facebook Ads, to amplify your reach within budget constraints.
Monitoring and Maintenance
During post-launch, regularly monitor your website’s performance metrics, including traffic, bounce rates, and conversion rates.
Address any technical issues promptly and update content periodically to keep information current and relevant. Proactive maintenance prevents costly downtime and ensures ongoing user satisfaction.
Creating a great website without spending a lot involves careful planning and smart choices.
Use tools and platforms that don’t cost much, and focus on making your site work well for users. This helps businesses make a strong online presence without spending too much. Be ready to change and grow as the market changes so your website stays valuable for your business.
Read: Building Your Online Castle: A Guide To Choosing The Right Website Development Platform
Ready to Create Your Own Website?
Creating a website that is able to effectively engage your audience and connect them with your business does not have to cost much.
By knowing what it is exactly that you want to achieve with your website creation, you can easily make sure you utilise your budget the right way and avoid any costly mistakes.
Once you have determined what it is you want, you’ll find that there are several easily customisable website hosting and plans that cater to your goals and keep you within budget without too much of a hassle.
To help set up an effective website for your business, SMRT’s extensive Website Hosting Services can easily help you determine your goals and develop a website that is both quality and cost-effective.
Schedule a consultation with us today and see the difference of having an effective website!