Why have a Website?

The need to communicate is ancient, only the methods change.  The internet offers a fantastic opportunity to communicate openly and effectively with large numbers.  It is also becoming more affordable and technically easier to have a website.  But why have one?  Here are five good reasons. There are plenty more.

People can find you easily
Most adults now use the internet to research an idea, where to go, what to join or what to buy.  If you are not there they won’t consider you.

Putting your best foot forward
A website can present what you do or are interested in, in the way you most want it to. Tell your story in the way you want it to be understood.



You can make sure you look your best

Getting to know you
People can be cautious about making first contact, or keen not to waste time on a pointless enquiry.  If they can read all about you first, get to know what you offer and what you do, they will be more confident that you are offering what they want, and call you to find out more.

Communicate accurate and up to date information to everyone who wants or needs it
If you are arranging a meeting, or an event or sharing important information you will want it to be clear, up to date and accurate.  If it is on your website with maps, phone numbers, details, downloads there will be fewer mistakes, less time lost and nobody overlooked.

One stop shop for everything
A website can tell the whole story about you – from what and where you are to what you do.  It can offer contact details, make it simple for people to book and attend events – and to select and buy goods and services.  Once your website is up, all that communication can be done from one, easy manageable place, and reach many more people than other forms of advertising.
 
So who might want to do all that?

Charities & community groups
Charity and community groups need to keep in touch with members and supporters, and a website is the easiest way of putting information in one accessible and up to date place where everyone can find it when and where they need to.  Let people know what you are doing, attract new members, draw attention to a campaign or publicise fundraising days or special events so everyone knows ‘happening, where to find you and how to help if they want to.

Businesses
Websites are almost essential for businesses now that so many people rely on the internet to communicate and search for information and goods.  80% of businesses in Ireland now have a website, but until now the cost has been prohibitive for small businesses.  An affordable website is an easy and effective way of letting people know where you are and what you do.  It is a cost effective way of increasing your profile, making it easy for customers to find you or check out  where you are or what you sell.  In fact, not to have a website is a disadvantage, especially if you want to remain up to date and to catch the millions who prefer to do their shopping and enquiring online.

If you run a cafe or restaurant, show people your menu, have photographs of your tables and food to whet their appetites.  If you sell books or jewelry, feature them in photographs or inform people with up to date reviews or fashion advice that will help them chose what to buy.

Or if you are gardener, show examples of your work and put up testimonials from satisfied customers.  Bring people to your website with up to date seasonal tips on what to plant or grow.
Home
Many families now have websites to share photographs and memories with relatives near and far.  Or to keep a record of special days like weddings and birthdays so that everyone can share the moment with you.  Families grow up so quickly and precious moments seem to come and go so quickly.
Share your family photos with friends

Why not record them by writing about them and putting photos and videos where you can always find them.  Make a record of those special paintings or keep a diary of your pets. 


Weddings

And talking of weddings, a website will let family and friends know all of the arrangements at a click.  Without troubling you, your guests can see an up to date gift list, or download a map and information about where to stay nearby.  And on the day itself, you can post photographs and videos for those who were there, and for those who couldn’t be.

Blog about your hobbies or special interests or a campaign
Last but not least, a blog is now the ideal place to set out your thoughts and views about a favourite hobby or a campaign for a special interest group.   You can let people know about your interests, put information and views out into the world, and link up with people who share your passion or feel the same about something.  Bloggers are now taking over the world of media as the place for up to date news.  Why not join them?“