How to plan your website design?

You've decided you need a website—and now it's time to plan it.
While the idea of planning your web design might seem overwhelming, it doesn't have to be! Following are a few tips to help you get an organized plan to build your website from. By starting with a well-defined plan from the beginning, you will create a successful website design that will support your business-- just the way you need it to. Here are the things you need to consider when planning your website:

Identify what your goal for your website is.
Is it to provide information to prospects and customers? Is it to generate leads? Is it to generate sales? Is it to work in conjunction with other marketing campaigns? Arming yourself with this information will help you build a website that is focused and consistent on achieving your overall goals. Ask yourself what should my website accomplish?

Define your target market?
With a clear view of your target market, you will be sure that your site appeals to them by creating a marketing message and aesthetics that will communicate with them clearly and decisively. Ask yourself who are my ideal clients, what characteristics do they share, what is the best way to communicate to them, what are their needs, what information would they like to get from my website, how can I use my website to cater to them? What will appeal to them and get them to pick up the phone and call me, request more information or make a purchase?

Identify the competition.
You can learn a lot from your competition. Review their websites, and get an idea of what you like and dislike. This process will help you get a better grasp of your own vision. When checking out the competition, always keep your goal in mind—to stand out from them! What can you do to stand out from the competition? What is their call to actions? How are they presenting themselves to their visitors?

Consider Functionality.
How will your website function? Think about which features you want your web design to have. You might want the capability to manage the site yourself, or have the site integrate with sales software. Maybe you'd like customers to be able to sign up for something or request quotes online.

Think About How Many Pages?
How many pages your website should have depends on what your goals are. If you have many products to sell, or lots of information to relay, you might need more pages. However, if you're just starting out, or you have a limited budget, perhaps you just need a basic ten page site including: Home, About us, Products/Services, How we work, Portfolio/Case Studies, Testimonials, Faqs, News, Privacy Policy, and Contact info.

How will I drive traffic to my website?
A lot of business owners think that their investment in a website design stops at building and launching a website, but that's not the case. In order for your website to be successful, it has to get found. Whether you are using traditional advertising or internet advertising to drive traffic to your website, it's imperative that you market your website consistently.

Consider your Budget.
How much money are you willing to spend on your website? It's important to think about your budget because-- as with anything, you get what you pay for. When you're shopping, look for the company that has the best portfolio, best value for their price, and most personal attention. If you're working with a minimum budget- go with a company who can provide you with high-quality basics. Save the bell and whistles for later. By doing it right the first time, you will save yourself aggravation in the future. Also, keep in mind that it will cost extra if you choose to
have a professional copy writer write your website copy for you. Ask yourself what is the maximum I am willing to invest in my website and consider what a small investment in internet marketing can do for your business.