Why a world class website costs
a lot less than it used to:

1. Well established best practices

Websites have been widely used as a marketing medium for over 10 years now. There are well esblished best practices for effectively reaching customers in a particular industry.

2. An abundance of skilled workers

Back in the year 2000 not many people understood the technology or process required to build a website. Now we have schools churning out thousands of interactive design graduates every year. As a service business, there is simply a greater supply of skilled workers.

3. Internet based technology/open standards

Many of the technical features of websites are now available as internet based widgets that can be easily customized to a particular environment. Youtube videos are a widely used example.

4. The flat earth effect

Competition is now global and outsourcing highly technical tasks to countries with lower labour costs is common. 

5. Digital Photography

The process of taking, processing, storing and searching images has been streamlined by digital technology. Now that virtually anyone can afford a high quality Digital SLR camera, stock photography sites are overflowing with image options and prices have been driven downwards.

Why the cheapest solution is never
the best solution:

1. Your website needs to strategically differentiate your business

You need to communicate immediately what makes you different from your competitors, either with compelling copy or a unique design that support your sales proposition. Clarity does not come from new or novel technology. It comes from an understanding of marketing principles, and the ability to effectively position your product or service.

2. You only get one chance at a first impression

A website needs to look contemporary and be current - no broken links, out of date listings or dated designs. After all, if you can't maintain your website, why should a customer trust you to look after them?

3. Your website needs to speak directly to your customers needs

A website should not be about you. It should speak to your customers' needs and how you fulfill them. That need allows you to create a call to action that should inform the whole direction of the site.

4. Your website needs a flexible framework.

You need to be able to expand your website or your content without having to redesign your entire site. A smart design that can walk the line between unique and flexible is essential.