Eight questions to ask before your organisation invests in a new website
An organisation’s website is often the first point of contact between local government and citizens. Before investing in a new website, asking the right questions is crucial to ensure the project meets your community’s needs and provides value for taxpayers’ money. Here are eight essential questions to consider:
- What are our main goals for the new website? Clearly define your objectives. Are you aiming to improve community engagement, streamline services, or enhance transparency? Your goals will guide the entire development process.
- Who are our primary users, and what do they need? Understand your audience. Are they mostly residents, businesses, or visitors? Conduct surveys or focus groups to identify their needs and preferences.
- What features and functionality are essential? Determine must-have features like document repositories and communication tools. Prioritise these based on user needs and council objectives.
- How will we ensure accessibility and mobile responsiveness? Your website should be usable by all residents, including those with disabilities. Many users will access the site via smartphones or tablets.
- What is our budget and timeline? Be realistic about costs and development time. Factor in ongoing maintenance, hosting, and potential future upgrades.
- How will we manage and update content? Consider the ease of use for staff responsible for keeping the website current. A user-friendly content management system is crucial.
- How will we measure the website’s success? Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) such as user engagement, service uptake, or reduced call volume to council offices. Plan for regular review and improvement.
- What kind of ongoing support and service does the provider offer? Ensure the web development company provides personalised, flexible support after launch. This ongoing assistance is crucial for addressing issues, making updates, and maximising the website’s effectiveness long-term.
By thoroughly addressing these questions, your council can make an informed decision about investing in a new website. Remember, a well-designed website can significantly enhance communication with citizens and streamline council operations, making it a worthwhile investment for your community.
To find out more about Phew’s Website Design and Development service, please visit our website, or email hello@phew.org.uk
“The website created by Phew has given us a centralised platform that offers local guidance and safeguarding information to our residents in an easy-to-navigate and aesthetically pleasing way.”
Havering Safeguarding Partnerships