Is it time to give that old rust bucket a complete makeover? Sure, it may run, but is it efficient? Is it fast? Does it make heads turn? Is it even legal?

Websites are not known for long shelf lifes. But in certain economic climates, you sometimes just have to make due. Well given the endless drumbeat of recession, recession, recession by media clickbait doomers for the past few years, it’s no surprise if your next website redesign has been parked in the back lot.

The good news now is that the economy is humming and now is the perfect time to reinvest in website enhancements or perhaps a full redesign. 

What are the average lifespans for websites?

The answer to this question varies depending on the type of website and the industry. For corporate marketing websites, the average lifespan is around 2-3 years. This relatively short lifespan is driven by the need to stay aligned with evolving brand messaging, design trends, and technological advancements.

Ecommerce websites, on the other hand, often require more frequent updates. Ecommerce web designers recommend redesigning every 2-5 years to keep up with the latest online shopping trends and technologies.

How do you know when it's time for a redesign?

Recognizing the right moment for a website redesign requires a clear understanding of several critical factors indicating your digital presence may no longer align with your business goals, user needs, or legal requirements. Does your website's design appear outdated next to competitors. Can it still rev Google’s engine in organic search rankings, and generate increases in engagement or conversions?

Another indicator is website accessibility and ADA compliance- which was likely not even a thing when your website was last redesigned. As digital inclusivity becomes not just a moral imperative but also a legal requirement, a website that fails to meet accessibility standards poses a significant risk to your business, both in terms of potential legal action and alienating a portion of your audience. 

Or perhaps the engine is just shot and you need a new CMS, then you might need to go for a full replatforming and rebuild from the axels up.

Do I need to replatform, redesign or just a website facelift?

Typically this comes down to budget. Yes, you can save money by changing the wipers and polishing the chrome, and in reality, sometimes a homepage retune is all that is needed to squeeze a few more miles out of her. But if the site isn’t ADA compliant, is dropping in Google ranks, or not holding its own against competitors, it might just be time to do a full redesign.

But if the frame that your website is built on is bent and your CMS is difficult to use or doesn’t enable you to control your content to the extent you need, then it may be time to replatform. 

Accessibility Matters: Ensuring Your Website is Inclusive

Sure, web accessibility wasn’t even on the list of features for your last site. Since then the ADA and various state laws (CA, CO, PA, MA, NY…) plus the upcoming European Accessibility Act (EAA) mandate that websites be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Failure to comply can result in legal action and damage to your brand's reputation.

But the good news is that redesigning with accessibility in mind from the beginning, will not only keep you out of legal trouble, it will also boost SEO, expand market reach, enhance usability, and help you attract customers and talent who care about digital inclusion.

As custom web developers, we understand the importance of an ADA compliant redesign that follows WCAG guidelines, and it's what we’re uniquely qualified to deliver. By prioritizing accessibility during your website redesign, you’ll ensure the best possible user experience. Good UX leads to better engagement and higher rates of conversion.

Best Practices for a Future-Proof Website

At Propeller, we believe in continuous improvement. Rather than waiting for a complete redesign every few years, we recommend making regular updates based on user feedback, analytics, and performance metrics. By continuously refining and optimizing your site, you can extend its lifespan and ensure it purrs like a kitten.

The Cost of Neglecting Your Website

Delaying a website redesign can come at a significant cost. An outdated website can lead to poor user experience, slow performance, decreased search engine visibility, damaged brand perception, and legal accessibility exposure. Your website is a reflection of your brand, and an outdated site with rust showing can give the impression that your business is behind the times or doesn't prioritize the needs of its customers.

Invest in Your Digital Future with Propeller

A website redesign is an investment that can pay dividends in the long run. A modern, user-friendly, and accessible website can improve user engagement, enhance search engine optimization (SEO), and strengthen your brand. A set of fresh wheels will also leave the competition stalled at the light.

As custom website designers, we specialize in crafting online experiences that not only look great but also drive results. Whether you need a complete overhaul or an accessible website redesign, our team of custom web developers is here to help. We'll work with you to create a digital presence that truly represents your brand and resonates with your target audience.

If your website is starting to feel outdated, let's discuss your web redesign project. Together, we can build a website that stands the test of time and helps your business succeed in the ever-evolving digital landscape. 

Ka-CHOW!