When designing or redesigning a business website, many companies start with the visual branding elements: the colors, the photos, the graphics, the cool features. 

Although content is sometimes an afterthought in the website development process, it is equally as important as functionality or design. You may have a high-quality product promoted on a sleek, modern website, but a weak content marketing strategy will still cost you leads and sales.  

Content marketing is the strategic creation of text and multimedia that informs a user and leads them through a specific journey—typically from awareness to consideration to action.

Here are five ways to improve your website content to more effectively market your product and keep your audience engaged.  

1. Know the purpose of each piece of content. Website real estate is extremely valuable. Attention spans are short and distractibility is high online. Each section of content on your website should have a distinct purpose. By knowing your end goals, you can more effectively mold your content to meet those goals. 
2. Provide value. Your audience’s attention needs to be earned, so each piece of content on your site should provide some sort of value. Identify what your specific audience values then use bold, simple headlines and straightforward copy that showcase how you can provide that value. 
3. Move from problem to solution. Digital content marketing is about connecting with an audience’s pain points (the problem) and presenting your company’s product or service as a solution. Frame your content in terms of your audience’s challenges and how you can make their life better. 
4. Include clear Calls to Action. Don’t assume your audience understands the next step they need to take in moving down the path to purchase—or that they will take initiative to move forward on their own. Each section of your website should indicate some Call-to-Action, such as “learn more,” “sign up,” or “browse our products.” 
5. Work with the design and functionality – The design and functionality of your website should not be developed separately from the content strategy. At ATX Web Designs, our designers, developers and content writers work together to holistically develop digital products that capture a company’s essence and effectively engage users. 

Questions about how content marketing and web design strategies could elevate your brand and improve your bottom line? Schedule a consultation with one of our digital strategists by clicking here. 

Hiring a web design and development agency is a smart move for businesses of any size and in any industry. These days, a company’s brand and reputation depend largely on its online presence. A high-quality website and engaging digital marketing content could be the deciding factors between a company’s success and failure. 

Not all web design agencies are created equal, however, and one of the most significant variables is size. If you’re considering web design services, you may be struggling to decide whether to hire a freelancer, small agency, medium-sized agency, or large agency. 

It can be a daunting task to wade through the pros and cons of hiring a small or large web design company, so we have simplified it for you. The following is a breakdown of both the benefits and disadvantages of agencies of various sizes. 

Freelancers

Pros: Cost and flexibility are two advantages offered by freelancers. Freelance web designers and developers typically set their own schedule and rates, and may be able to customize both for your project. 

Cons: There is less accountability and more risk when working with a freelancer, even those who come with positive reviews. In addition, a freelancer cannot offer the diversity of experience and skill available through an agency. 

Small Agency 

Pros: Small agencies (2-10 people) are sure to give your project personalized attention. They may also cater to a particular audience and have industry-specific knowledge. Sometimes, not always, small agencies charge a rate comparable to freelancers. 

Cons: Small agencies may not have the resources to complete complex projects in a timely manner. They may also not have the experience or technical skills that can be found at larger companies with more staff and a broader portfolio. 

Medium Agency 

Pros: Medium agencies are the best of both worlds. They have the staff and resources to handle even the most complex projects, but they are small enough to maintain personal connections with clients.

Cons: Medium-sized agencies may not offer the reduced rate you would receive from a freelancer or small agency. 

Large Agency 

Pros: Large agencies have experience and resources at their disposal. Their diverse portfolios and large staff allow them to take on extensive and complex projects. 

Cons: Large agencies can be less personal. Your project may be outsourced or viewed as just a number, and you may not receive the personal attention or customization you’re seeking. You may also encounter more bureaucracy and red tape with a large agency. 

If you have questions about your web design project and would like to discuss options with design and development professionals, please reach out to us.