Tag: Website Management

  • How Professional Website Management Impacts Your Online Presence of a Family-Owned Business

    How Professional Website Management Impacts Your Online Presence of a Family-Owned Business

    In today’s fast-changing digital world, family-owned businesses face an important choice: they must honor their traditions while also keeping up with the rapidly changing demands of the modern market. One big challenge in this journey is making sure people can find their website online. It’s as important as ever to fine the right professional website management.

    In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what marketing managers in these businesses aim for, the problems they encounter, and how they decide to hire the right person to help them with their website. We’ll also see how getting the right person to manage their website can make a big difference in their success.

    Why Being Visible Online Is So Important

    In a world where the internet can determine if a business is successful or not, having an online presence isn’t just a bonus – it’s a must. Think of it as a digital shopfront, the first thing people see when they look for your business online. It is also a powerful tool for making people recognize your brand. For family-owned businesses, entering the digital world is a crucial step for growing and staying a strong competitor.

    What You’ll Need to Do to Get Noticed

    Marketing managers in family-owned businesses have some big goals that guide what they do:

    Get Noticed Online

    You will want more people to know about your business. Your job is to attract new customers while keeping the ones you have already worked so hard to get.

    Sell More and Make More Money

    Aim to increase your online sales. This means using digital marketing tricks to attract more customers who will value your company’s products and traditions.

    Build a Strong Brand

    Creating a solid online identity is a top priority. You will want your business to be known for what it stands for. You should aim for people to recognize and trust your brand online.

    Share the Workload

    This might all sound very overwhelming to you, but it doesn’t have to be that way. It is smart to consider hiring an expert in website management. This person can take care of digital marketing, handle social media, and make sure the website works well. This way, you will be able to focus on what you’re best at.

    Challenges and Hurdles

    Reaching these goals isn’t always easy:

    Not Knowing the Digital Stuff

    Traditional marketing may be something you are good at when it comes to your business, but you might not know much about digital marketing and website management. Learning these new skills can be tough.

    Limited Money

    You might work with a budget. Hiring a website manager costs money, and they need to make sure it’s worth the investment.

    Facing Big Competition

    Other businesses are also trying to get attention online. This can make it hard for family-owned businesses to stand out.

    Holding onto Traditions

    Family-owned businesses have deep traditions and a strong commitment to quality. They’ll need a website manager who understands and respects these values while bringing them into the digital world.

    What They Look for When Hiring Professional Website Management

    To pick the right person for the job, marketing managers have specific criteria in mind:

    Digital Marketing Skills

    They want a website manager who knows a lot about digital marketing. This means they need to be experts in things like SEO, content marketing, email marketing, and social media advertising.

    Web Development Skills

    The chosen person should also know about web development or work well with a web development team. This is important to make sure the website looks great and is easy to use.

    Creativity and Innovation

    Being creative and thinking outside the box is a big plus. They want a website manager who can come up with new and exciting ideas that set their business apart from the competition.

    Cost-Effective Solutions

    The website manager needs to be good at what they do without overspending. They have to show that the money spent on them is a smart investment.

    Understanding of Brand Values

    The person they hire should get what the family-owned business stands for. It’s not just about selling products but also showing the business’s values and commitment to quality.

    Proven Success

    They want someone with a track record of making businesses more visible online and increasing their income. This shows they know what they’re doing.

    Good at Communicating

    The website manager must be able to explain their plans and results in a way that everyone can understand. This is how they make sure everyone is on the same page.

    How Professional Website Management Makes a Difference

    Now, let’s see why hiring the right website manager can change everything for a family-owned business:

    Getting Noticed Online

    A skilled website manager knows the ins and outs of digital marketing. This helps the business become more visible online. They use strategies like SEO, content marketing, and social media advertising to make sure the business shows up in search results and social media. It’s like turning on a bright spotlight on the business, making it more noticeable to everyone.

    Selling More and Earning More

    Smart digital marketing and website management can lead to an increase in online sales. The website manager plans campaigns that attract a wider audience who appreciate the quality and traditions of the business. This means more money flowing in and a more successful business.

    Building a Strong Brand

    Professional website management ensures that the business’s online brand identity is strong and clear. The website manager makes sure the design, content, and user experience of the website match the business’s core values. This helps the brand stick in the minds of customers. It’s like making a mark that’s hard to forget.

    Sharing the Workload

    By having a professional website manager, the marketing manager can focus on what they do best. They can trust the expert to handle digital marketing and website optimization. This makes their work more efficient and leads to better results.

    Using Money Wisely

    A skilled website manager isn’t just about spending money; they are good at managing it too. They make sure the strategies they use are both effective and budget-friendly. The website manager makes sure the money invested in them brings in more money in return.

    Preserving Traditions

    In a family-owned business, tradition is vital. The website manager needs to understand and respect these traditions while bringing them into the digital world. This means keeping the commitment to quality and craftsmanship strong, even online.

    Proven Success

    A website manager with a proven track record is someone you can trust. Their past successes show that they know how to navigate the digital world. They bring assurance to the marketing manager and the family, showing they are in good hands.

    Clear Communication

    Good communication is key. The website manager needs to explain their strategies and results clearly. This makes sure everyone understands the impact of their work and can support the business’s goals.

    The Journey to Success: Tradition and Innovation

    In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is not just a bonus for family-owned businesses – it’s a necessity. It’s about keeping traditions alive while embracing new ways of doing things. The marketing manager in our story represents many professionals in similar situations, all with specific goals and challenges.

    By using the right criteria to choose a professional website manager, these businesses can see a big change in their online presence. With a well-optimized website and a digital marketing plan that’s tailored to them, they can reach more people, sell more, and stay true to their unique brand. The road isn’t easy, but with a commitment to their traditions and a smart approach to digital marketing, family-owned businesses can thrive in the digital world, making sure their legacy continues to shine.

    Conclusion: Professional Website Management

    Professional website management services isn’t just a tool – it’s a doorway to a brighter future for these special businesses. It’s a way to honor the past and embrace the future, all while staying connected with the modern world. The impact is huge, breathing new life into old traditions while pushing them forward into the digital era with strength and energy. It’s a journey that empowers family-owned businesses, letting them enjoy the best of both worlds. It’s a story of tradition and entrepreneurship facing the digital future with confidence and success.

  • 10 Reasons a Good WordPress Management Service Will Save You Time & Money

    10 Reasons a Good WordPress Management Service Will Save You Time & Money

    In this article, we share how (and why) a professional WordPress management service is worth the cost and will make you much more productive.

    WordPress Management Service Explained

    Your WordPress website should be a time-saver and a money-maker, but it needs to be well-managed to run like a well-oiled machine. This will take time and energy unless you’re a seasoned website developer. That’s when it’s time to turn to a WordPress Management Service.

    WordPress management services do various things, such as providing technical support, installing security patches, maintaining the WordPress database, optimizing WordPress performance, and more.

    If you have no idea what I just said, you’re in the right place.

    When you choose to use a WordPress management service, they’ll take care of all these tasks for you, freeing up your time so that you can focus on other aspects of running your website or growing your business.

    That said, it’s essential to choose a suitable WordPress management service provider who is experienced and has a proven process for managing your website. This will ensure that your website remains secure and functioning correctly.

    Get 2 Months of FREE WordPress Management

    Learn more about our WordPress Management Packages and get two months free when you commit annually.

    Problems with Bad WordPress Management Service

    With a good WordPress management service, you can rest assured that your WordPress website is in the hands of experts who know WordPress—and your website—inside out.

    However, we know that’s not always the case. Many WordPress management services take your money and don’t save you any time. If you’ve ever hired a WordPress management service, you may have experienced one of these things.

    1. You have no idea if they’re doing anything

    One of the biggest problems with WordPress management services is the need for more transparency regarding how they will manage your website.

    The thing is, anyone can sound like they know what they’re talking about. But when the end of the billing period rolls around, and you don’t see any improvements or reports, you start to wonder if they’re doing anything.

    2. Your website gets ignored and forgotten about

    WordPress websites require plugins to make specific functionality work. And plugin developers update their plugins regularly, which means your WordPress plugins may become increasingly outdated as the days go on during any given month.

    If your service provider doesn’t have a proven process for regularly updating your website and sharing the information with you, your website is getting forgotten, and you’re paying for nothing.

    3. They don’t know the ins and outs of your website

    Your website is complex, and it’s unique to your business. Unfortunately, many WordPress management services focus on one-size-fits-all solutions and often fail to address the specific needs of your website, thus leading to subpar performance or limited functionality in certain areas. 

    What happens is that they don’t save you any time or money. Instead, they took your money and gave you a headache—not to mention an outdated site burning oil.

    How to Find a WordPress Management Service Worth Hiring

    You must find WordPress management services that offer transparency in their WordPress management processes, provide tailored solutions, and understand WordPress trends well. Doing so will ensure that your WordPress website is up-to-date, secure, and optimized for maximum results. 

    Finally, it is essential to remember that WordPress management services vary widely, so it is vital to research WordPress management services thoroughly before making a decision. Doing so will ensure that WordPress websites receive the highest quality WordPress management service possible.

    Our article WordPress Management and Maintenance Services: How to Outsource, DIY, or Keep In House to learn more about finding the right service provider.

    Why Every Business Should Hire a WordPress Management Service

    WordPress management services are vital for businesses looking to grow their online presence.

    These services will save you time and money, keep your website secure and updated, and ensure that your website works. Here are the reasons why.

    If you or your team are still getting familiar with website development and maintenance, you need to hire a service to handle these tasks. Not only is website management going to drive you crazy, but it's also going to bog you down.

    1. Managing a website requires technical knowledge or expertise

    If you or your team are still getting familiar with website development and maintenance, you need to hire a service to handle these tasks. Not only will website management drive you crazy, but it will also bog you down.

    A WordPress management service will give you back hours each week and allow you to focus on high-value activities that will move your work forward.

    2. WordPress management takes a lot of time

    Managing a website can take significant time; some people may need more time or resources to do it themselves. A good WordPress management service will take the burden off your shoulders and free up time to focus on other aspects of your business.

    3. Regular updates and maintenance are required

    A WordPress management service can update your website with the latest core and plugin updates. This ensures you don’t experience any downtime or security breaches that would drive customers away.

    4. You want to improve optimization for search engines

    A management service can help optimize a website for search engines to improve its visibility and search rankings. This can result in more website traffic and, ultimately, more sales.

    5. You need help with customization and content updates

    A management service can help you add or update content on your website so it stays up-to-date and customers see the most relevant information. There’s nothing more effective at turning away customers than an outdated site. Don’t let that be yours!

    6. Website backups and security is a priority

    A management service can help ensure a website is backed up regularly and protected against hacking and other security threats. Not only will security issues create downtime on your site, but they can also mean someone has stolen your customer’s private information. Nobody wants to write that email.

    7. You want your website to perform well

    A management service can help optimize website performance by implementing caching, minifying resources, and other techniques to improve load times and overall user experience. You are losing customers if your website doesn’t load within 5 seconds. Ensuring your customers aren’t walking out the door the moment they walk in is invaluable.

    WordPress Management Service Common Questions

    WordPress Management Service Common Questions

    What is a WordPress management or maintenance service?

    A WordPress management or maintenance service is a service provider that offers WordPress website maintenance, support, and growth services.

    What are the benefits of a WordPress management service?

    A quality WordPress management service will give you many benefits:

    1. Complete peace of mind that a team of WordPress experts manages and maintains your website.
    2. Hours back every week so you can focus on high-value activities that drive your business forward.
    3. Happy customers love using your website because it works like a charm, it’s fast, and it’s easy to use.
    4. Advice and implementation for SEO and other digital marketing strategies that support your website.
    5. Quick customer support so you can rest easy knowing that help is available anytime.

    Ultimately, WordPress management services save time, energy, and money while ensuring optimal performance and security for WordPress websites.

    What types of WordPress management service is available?

    WordPress management services vary depending on the provider. Common WordPress maintenance and support services include:

    • WordPress updates
    • WordPress security monitoring
    • WordPress backups
    • Performance optimization
    • Content management

    Some providers may also offer additional web development or SEO services.

    Structure WordPress Management Packages include all of these services and more, including:

    • Dedicated Account Manager
    • 24-hour Response time (during the workweek)
    • Monthly detailed website report

    What should I consider when looking for a WordPress Management Service?

    When choosing WordPress management services, consider the provider’s reputation, experience, and customer support. It would be best to look at the types of services included in the package and how much it costs.

    Finally, read reviews from other customers to see if their experiences match what you need for your WordPress website.

    Why do I need WordPress maintenance?

    Without a working website, you won’t meet your marketing objectives—that’s where WordPress management services come in.

    Overall, WordPress management services provide peace of mind that your website is in good hands and looks professionally done. It also saves time, energy, and money while ensuring your WordPress website stays healthy and performs well.

    What is the difference between WordPress and a managed WordPress service?

    WordPress is the software used to create websites, while WordPress management services focus more on upkeep and maintenance than creating the website.

    What is the difference between managed WordPress and regular hosting?

    Managed WordPress hosting is a service that provides WordPress users with specialized WordPress-focused features for their websites, such as automatic WordPress updates, WordPress-specific security measures, daily backups, and more.

    On the other hand, regular hosting services provide the same features without WordPress-specific functionality, automatic updates, or premium support. The main difference is that managed WordPress hosting has been optimized for WordPress to ensure the best performance and security for WordPress websites.

    If I hire a WordPress management service, do I own my content on WordPress?

    Yes, you should! But it depends on the WordPress management service. If you hire a WordPress management service, they should give you complete ownership of your content and website. Before engaging their services, it’s essential to clarify this point with the WordPress management provider.

    How much do website management and maintenance services cost?

    The cost of WordPress maintenance services depends on the WordPress management service provider and their benefits. Some WordPress maintenance providers charge a one-time fee or an ongoing monthly subscription, while others offer packages tailored to your needs.

    It’s also worth noting that WordPress maintenance costs can vary depending on the size and complexity of the website.

    We have a few WordPress management packages at Structure, ranging from $249/mo for our Essential WordPress Management Package to $1,299/mo., for our Premium WordPress Management Package .

    Can WordPress manage multiple sites?

    Yes, WordPress can manage multiple sites. The WordPress Multisite Network is a feature that allows users to manage multiple sites from a single dashboard. This makes updating and maintaining a multi-site environment more accessible with minimal effort.

    However, note that WordPress management services are more complex when you have a WordPress network of sites. Structure provides additional support in our second-tier Professional WordPress Management Package for WordPress multisite clients because of the additional work and risk required to manage a network.

  • 5 Stages of a Successful Website Redesign Process That Works Every Time

    5 Stages of a Successful Website Redesign Process That Works Every Time

    Redesigning a company website can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never done it before or you’re already overwhelmed by the projects on your plate. It’s so much easier when you have a proven website redesign process to follow.

    In this article, we will walk you through the Structure Website Redesign Process that we’ve used for hundreds of clients over the last five years (September 20, 2023, at the time of this writing).

    To cut to the chase, we have a 5 Step Website Redesign Process that works every time (if you follow it!).

    1. Define
    2. Design
    3. Develop
    4. Manage
    5. Grow

    You can do these steps on your own or with your internal team. You could probably get a solid head start with this article and our Free Website Redesign Planning Guide.

    However, if you’re considering hiring an expert to help with your website redesign project, it’s much easier to trust someone who has a plan and has worked on it repeatedly.

    Unfortunately, you don’t get that with most local web design agencies or freelancers.

    This 5-Step Website Plan is the same process we’ve used for clients in executive coaching, manufacturing, private equity, e-commerce, cannabis, consumer packaged goods, and many more.

    If you’re in one of those industries, that’s great! But even if you’re not, this website redesign process will still work for you.

    And even if you’ve got a small website or spinning off a new one, you can use this process. While it’s perfect for a website redesign, it works great for a new website.

    Let’s build a website that keeps your customers hooked.

    Step 1: Define – Website Planning

    A website redesign isn’t art.

    It’s science.

    Unfortunately, in the many website redesign projects we’ve worked on, the primary problem with any web project that doesn’t meet goals or expectations is a failure to plan.

    Of course, at Structure, we start with planning. So that’s not an issue when you work with us.

    But in my experience as a digital marketing veteran at software companies and agencies, the same website issues have come up over the years.

    And they all come back to one thing: failure to plan.

    It’s not just my experience, either!

    Research suggests that 68% of marketers did a site redesign in the last 12 months – but 1/3 were unhappy with the results.

    Furthermore, failed website redesigns cost an average of $55,000 plus an additional $115,000 over the next 12 months to fix.

    Ralf Speth, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover, said it best:

    If you think good design is expensive, you should look at the cost of bad design.

    Likewise, if you think a good website is expensive, you should see the cost of a bad website.

    That is why we start every website redesign process with a website plan. And you should, too.

    Get Our Free Website Redesign Planning Guide

    Download the Structure Website Design Planner to plan a website launch that makes your project successful!

    How does the “define” stage of the Structure website redesign process work?

    All website projects start with a free 30-minute Consult Call where we’ll gain an understanding of what you’re hoping to create.

    We’ll ask questions like…

    • Why do you need a new website?
    • What do you need your website to do for your business?
    • How did your last website perform? What worked/didn’t work?
    • Which platforms are you using, and do you like them?

    During this call, we’ll also be able to recommend a website design package that fits your goals. Once you decide on a package, we’ll start with a virtual or in-person Website Workshop.

    During this workshop, we’ll help you define and document the following information:

    1. Basic company information
    2. Who is on your team
    3. The vision for your website
    4. A competitive analysis
    5. Brand documentation
    6. Your buyer’s journey
    7. A sitemap of your pages
    8. Content plans for each page
    9. Technology requirements
    10. Website build budget

    The final answers comprise your Website Plan.

    Step 2: Design – Website Layout

    Website design is more than mocking up a pretty version of your brand for a webpage; it’s designing a home for your customers to visit to engage with your business and buy from you!

    Whether you’re starting by looking for a fresh look for your website or you already know you want to add new functionality, the website redesign process hinges on understanding what makes an outstanding strategic design.

    Website Redesign Process: Define

    What is a strategic design, you might ask?

    A strategic design is these things:

    • Visually appealing and on-brand
    • Well-organized and easy to navigate
    • Engaging with compelling content
    • Designed for your target audience
    • Optimized for search engines
    • Responsive, so it looks good on all devices

    Creating a strategic website design that meets all these criteria can seem daunting, but it’s important to remember that your website is a vital part of your business and should reflect your brand and meet your business goals.

    In short, your website design should focus on how it works, not just how it looks.

    How does the “design” stage of the Structure website redesign process work?

    The Structure Website Design Package you choose will determine what you receive from the process. However, here are some of the deliverables you can expect:

    • Wireframes
    • Desktop Designs
    • Mobile Designs
    • Tablet Designs
    • Content & Media
    • Functional Specification

    If you’re unsure what this means, that’s okay! Our team of website design experts can help. We’ll coach and consult with you to clearly understand the goals and needs of your website, and then we’ll create a custom website design that’s right for you.

    Step 3: Develop – Build

    During the website development process, the aim is to create a site that aligns with the design concepts established in the prior phase.

    Moreover, this is the stage where you guarantee that your website operates smoothly, catering to the objectives, technology, and user requirements outlined in the Website Plan.

    This is another reason the website plan is so critical. It is a guiding source of truth throughout the website redesign process.

    Achieving these objectives will create a website that accomplishes your plan and sets you up to crush your business goals.

    Website Redesign Process: Development

    How does the “development” stage of the Structure website redesign process work?

    Upon your approval of the Functional Specification (the final design deliverable), our development team will begin building your website on a separate development site so your live website isn’t affected. 

    We’ll optimize your website for all devices and browsers and essential SEO, accessibility, and load speed as standard practice.

    Then, we’ll break your website. But don’t worry, it won’t stay broken!

    We’ll fix any issues and put checks in place to ensure it’s bulletproof for your team and users.

    Testing is completed with a Training Call so you know exactly how everything works. Then, you’ll get to review and approve your website.

    When you approve, we’ll launch your website and push it live onto your domain for customers to use and love. 

    If you’re lost by now, here’s a quick recap:

    1. Structure Builds Your Website
    2. Structure Completes Quality Assurance (testing)
    3. Structure Provides Website Training
    4. Your Review
    5. Structure Launches Your Website

    Ultimately, by the end of this step, you’ll have a new website to delight every visitor.

    Your website will be easy to manage and set up to work for your business.

    And we have a Work For Free Warranty to cover you in case of any unexpected flaws.

    Step 4: Manage – Updates & Monitoring

    All websites must be updated and optimized, especially after being redesigned.

    It’s a common practice for local agencies to “lock” you into a management plan with them. Often, this subscription is part of the deal. Or, they might hold the key to your hosting.

    Either way, we’re not fans of locking you into anywhere you don’t want to be.

    That includes a management or hosting plan you don’t know why you’re paying for. That’s not our style.

    Website Redesign Process: Support

    We want to hand off your website to your team with training and support to ensure it’s working and meeting your business goals.

    You’ll have every tool and resource if you want to manage it yourself.

    However, managing your website takes time. It can easily take a few hours a week.

    Most clients don’t have a team to hand their website to, so we continue working with an active WordPress Website Management package.

    We love managing websites we’ve built, and it’s honestly one of our favorite partnerships for long-term growth.

    The reason is that we’re “in your corner” to support any ongoing initiatives, optimizations, and projects.

    We’re here for whatever you need, as long as you need it.

    How does the “manage” stage of the Structure website redesign process work?

    Website management with Structure is more hands-off for you than most other steps in the website redesign process.

    This means you may not see much of what’s happening in the background.

    But as soon as you hand off your website for management, we immediately do the following:

    • Setup daily site backups
    • Test forms and conversion funnels
    • Make monthly plugin and software updates
    • Report on website performance monthly
    • Audit website performance & SEO annually
    • Make ourselves readily available to answer any questions you have

    That’s it! If you want to learn more, you can download our free PDF Overview (no email required).

    Step 5: Grow – Increase Results

    In the end, the effectiveness of your website launch hinges on its capacity to generate traffic, capture leads, and drive sales.

    However, achieving these objectives becomes impossible if your website isn’t functioning correctly. In this final phase, you will execute marketing campaigns tailored to your target audience.

    Subsequently, you will consistently fine-tune your strategies in response to the distinctive challenges and opportunities you encounter. The growth phase is where your website truly reaches its full potential.

    How does the “grow” stage of the Structure website redesign process work?

    Often, we work with our clients to develop a sales funnel to drive sign-ups and sales.

    For most clients, this means focusing on three initiatives, in order:

    1. Acquire Traffic
    2. Generate Leads
    3. Increase Sales

    Website Redesign Process Common Questions

    [gs_faq id=”2091″]

    [gs_faq id=”2093″]

    [gs_faq id=”903″]

    [gs_faq id=”892″]

    [gs_faq id=”895″]

    [gs_faq id=”897″]

    [gs_faq id=”2095″]

    [gs_faq id=”2097″]

    [gs_faq id=”2099″]

    [gs_faq id=”2102″]