We were asked recently to propose on a small website for a non-profit trade organization. The group, with about one hundred members, wanted a new website and had been referred to us from another small nonprofit we had worked with.
The conversation went something like this:
Them: We need a website
Me: Ok, what do you want your website to do?
Them: We just need one
Me: Do you have a public outreach campaign coming up? Are you trying to engage an audience?
Them: No
Me: Is this for members only? Do you need any membership services or enrollment forms?
Them: No
And the conversation continued for a few minutes along the same lines. In the end, the need for a website was what we refer to as an informational placeholder. They wanted a little about the organization and who to contact if someone had an interest. There were no calls to action, no member services.
When All You Need is a Web Page (Not a Web Site)
We concluded that a web page, rather than a web site would be most appropriate. And in the end, our proposal for a website A past co-worker just launched a hobby business. He is very talented at design and coding. While I would recommend a little more content, this page – www.drinkzeel.com – does everything the business needs at this point. It has all the basic information and a way to contact the company. When you are ready for a website you need to draft a description of what you want your website to accomplish. Do you want to build membership or sales? Do you want people to come to your business or contact you? Do you want a customer service focus? A simple planning brief will describe who your target audiences are, communications objectives and how to measure them, your style and tone, and any required elements like your logo and any customization desired. These decisions will help you frame your project and get better estimates. See also – Quick Tips for Effective Landing pagesA simple page does the trick
When you do need a website – Plan
