Planning for web site updates

One aspect of launching a new web site that many businesses overlook is planning for ongoing updates. At an absolute minimum, you should try to update your web site every three months, even if the edits are simple text changes and additions. If you’re conducting e-commerce, you may need to update prices or availability at any time.

There are three main ways to handle web site updates:

• Have your web site builder make updates for you. Site design companies either charge a monthly fee for a set amount of changes, or charge per hour for each change that they make. Since simple text updates can be done in a matter of minutes, the latter is an economical choice if you don’t intend to update your site very frequently.
• Implement a system that lets you update text. Many web site design firms offer content management systems that let you edit site content without learning any programming languages. Depending on the complexity of your site, this can range from a small additional expense to a considerable upgrade. However, it frees you from the hassle of contacting an external supplier every time you want to make a change.
• Have an internal staffer manage updates. Even if you outsource the production of your site, your internal tech staff should be able to make basic web site updates without too much trouble. If you have the staff in place, this option is the least expensive and gives you the greatest control.

It’s not necessary to choose one of the approaches before you start. Talk to your vendor about the expected magnitude and frequency of your web site updates and they should be able to present you with the right option for your needs, budget, and internal capabilities.

You may even wind up with a combination of these three. For example, your e-commerce setup may come with an interface that lets you manage product prices and availability, but other parts of your site will have to be updated by your vendor.

Instant Vendor Comparison

Select the vendors that you would like to compare