Web Design & Management

Broadly speaking, those managing your website(s) should have several, or preferably all, of the key skills and experience listed here:

• An in-depth knowledge of popular content management systems (CMS) and administrative backend technical functions
• Knowledge of HTML and embedding/shortcode, iframe and hex code usage
• Technical knowledge of resolving hacking and software bug issues
• A precise eye for appealing, proportional, clear and balanced content and visual layout
• Experience of posting correctly formatted content and engaging articles
• Ability to effectively use online news syndication such as Google Alerts and MailChimp
• Ability to meet high standard copy format
• An understanding of GDPR, current accessibility, disability and copyright law
• Ability to use and manage social media (Twitter, Instagram & Facebook etc)

'From the horses' mouth'

We strongly advise that you review the resources and links set out on this page.

How many hats can you wear?

The pitfalls of DIY web design.

When you use a DIY website builder, or 'go it alone', you better be prepared to act as a brand strategist, graphic designer, web designer, UX expert, copywriter, and marketing professional – while still carrying out the day-to-day operations of your business! Is it worth it?

As a business owner you’ve surely received offers from companies like WiX, SquareSpace, GoDaddy etc, which typically promise extremely low payments along with a simple do-it-yourself platform.

They promise professional results - but there are no professionals involved, and all you’ll have is a website that harms your brand more than it helps.

A cheap DIY solution may sound like the perfect fit when your business is just starting out or on tight budgets, but it’s a risky choice. 

Read full article here >

Good Copy, Bad Copy

Are you killing your website?

The layout, presentation, colours, font type and choice of images is crucial to producing good and engaging copy for your website!

It’s surprising how much bad copywriting exists online, ranging from adverts right through to content on websites. Ultimately, this can affect a company’s internet presence and damage any digital strategy they may be engaged in. But how do you create effective, eye-catching copy?

The importance of producing high-quality copy can never be underestimated in the online arena.

Studies have consistently found that webpages following best practice for online copywriting outperform those which don’t by over 100%.

Read full article here >

Also worth a read...

A Comparative Guide: Good vs. Bad Looking 

Blog Posts Click Here >

Why is it important to invest in website development?

It just makes good business sense.

With the advent of new technology, building a robust online presence is no longer optional for businesses. Customers across all sectors use the power of the internet to find solutions to their problems, answers to their questions, and products to their requirements.

That said, if you are a business or enterprise owner, it is essential that your website meets the needs and expectations of the customers and completely resonates with your brand’s message.

So, how to create a compelling website that screams professionalism? Well, the answer to this question is a little tricky. Since design is a subjective concept, what is attractive and engaging for some might be boring for others.

This brings in the need (or urge) for personalization. And because traditional design practices do not meet the high bar set in the customized world, they will fail terribly.

Read full article here >

There is a lot of information available on the web about these matters.

(We've compiled a few searches for you)

Good web design vs bad web design

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Good vs bad website web management

(related videos Click Here)

See First Stop's maintenance packs here >

Keeping your website updated is essential to maintain a relationship with existing or potential customer’s or service users, and to ensure against software failings and security vulnerabilities.