What Is the Purpose of a Website?

What Is the Purpose of a Website?

When you create a website, most of the time, the first step is to define why you need to have an online presence. In other words, why do you need a website? You better understand what you need to create when you answer this question. A site with the goal of providing information will likely be different from an online store. But what is the purpose of a website? ​

Why do you need a website?

To help you with this question, we have listed a list of the 7 main purposes of a website. Of course, you may have other objectives or reasons for needing an online presence. The most important thing here is to understand your needs.

It is the basis of your online presence

A website is the most important component of your online presence. No other platform is as complete or offers as many possibilities. It is also the place where you can display all the relevant information regarding your business or association, whether it is your projects, employees, services, products, or history. It is indeed vital to be on social media; however, a simple Facebook page will never have the credibility of a complete website. If you are looking for a notary to purchase a home, will you choose the one with a website or that only uses Instagram?

It allows you to be found by potential customers

Millions of people now use the web. It is then a significant number of potential customers. Fortunately, it is now easy to find anything on Google, whether it is a restaurant, a product, or a tip. To increase your website traffic, your site must appear in the search engine’s results. Of course, it is not done automatically; there are some actions to take to optimize your website for Google. Start by finding the right keywords, and then write relevant meta descriptions and title tags.

It allows you to have an international presence

Another purpose of a website is that it allows you to be present on an international level. Your main clientele is likely from your hometown if you have a store. If you have an online store or a website, you have the opportunity to have customers from all over the world. Also, there are no open hours or holidays on the website. Users can then access your platform 24 hours per day and 7 days per week. We can say that a website can quickly increase your visibility.

It allows you to show what you are capable of doing

Whether you have a website for your business or an online store, it can be used to show what you can do and examples of past projects. It is now common to have an online portfolio. Do not hesitate to show your past works or best creations on your site; it can increase your credibility and convince potential clients to work with you. Another way to look trustworthy is to add customer reviews to your website. When you finish a project, ask your clients to leave a small comment that you will display on your site.

It allows you to inform and answer questions

You may decide to create a website because you need to provide information. For example, if you want to make a website for an association or a sports team, there are great chances that people will visit your site to find some precise information. For example, when will be the next match, training, or event? When will the registration start? Who are the team members? As we mentioned, a website is more than a simple social media page. Consequently, take this opportunity to answer all the questions of your community. 

It allows you to create an online community

Regarding communities, a website allows you to reach thousands of people. Whether a blog or an online store, these clients can become part of your community and be loyal to you. But what can you do to create your own online community? First, you need to define a precise target audience. Then, create content that will be useful or that they will like. With time, it will be easier to create blog articles or products that meet their needs. An online presence on social media is also required.

It allows you to sell online

Finally, a website can also give you the opportunity to sell your products or services online. You increase the number of potential customers and consequently your sales and business revenues when you are online. It is also more accessible than you might think. Start by creating your product pages by adding a complete description of the item and many pictures of good quality. Confirm the price, payment methods, delivery, and voila. You will only have to promote your online store and send the orders. 

In conclusion, many said it, but if you do not have an online presence, you do not exist. Nowadays, there are great chances that you need a website, whether it is to sell, inform, or entertain. The whole process is also easier than a few years ago with the help of tools like WebSelf. If you do not know where to start, take a look at our article How to create your first website in just 7 easy steps. Good luck!