The Internet has steadily evolved over the years, and still is evolving. And like the Internet, the tools we use to access it are contantly changing. That’s one of the main reasons why most businesses, including dental practices, redesign their websites from time to time.
There is no industry standard for when a site needs an upgrade. That said, a rule of thumb has emerged: commercial websites are typically redesigned every two to three years.
Redesigning a website may not be a very appealing idea. A lot of work goes into it. But it’s an important part of staying competitive. The simple fact is that many dental practice websites, if you’ll pardon the pun, tend to get a little long in the tooth.
Is It Time?
A website redesign may involve anything from updating some of its elements, to building an entirely new site from scratch. How do you know when the time has come?
If you have noticed any decline in new patients to your practice, your website may be underperforming. Or maybe your site is just plain old and stale-looking.
- New Patients. The most important function of your site is bringing new patients in to your office. That means your site must give you high visibility. Potential new patients find you through search engines like Google, so the entire site must have content that is fully optimized for SEO, search engine optimization.
- Easy Navigation. Your site must be well-designed, so that visitors can easily find their way around. They may be looking for some specific piece of information, and you want them to be able to find it. If you’ve got something people are looking for, like your experience with dental implants or teeth whitening, visitors should be able to find that in one or two clicks. If they can’t, your site does not have an effective design. Time to fix it.
- Up-to-Date. Websites have plenty of links. Does yours have any that are obsolete? No one wants to click on something only to get a 404 page, or one that cannot be accessed on a mobile device.
Your website is the public face of your dental practice; in many ways, its heart and soul. Is yours doing what it should?
ProspectaMarketing is an experienced Internet marketing firm that specializes in dental practices. We use all of the tools of Internet search marketing to help you reach key prospects who are looking for what your practice has to offer. Our unique and thorough approach provides visibility, financial accountability, and ongoing refinement and improvement. You can find out more by contacting Lane Anderson toll-free at 1-877-322-4440 Ext 101, by email using the form on our Contact Us page, or online at ProspectaMarketing.com.