So, you're a Manufacturing, Engineering or Construction business and you're choosing between a couple of web agencies for your new redesign and one of them drops in 'We can totally redesign your website in 30 days!'
Before you jump in with both hands and feet, take a breather and let's break this down. Because, while speed has its advantages at times, a rushed website can leave you with more regrets than results.
Here's what you really need to ask if someone's promising you a lightening-fast website redesign.
1. What's Actually Included in the 30 Days?
Are they ...
• Researching your target audience?
• Auditing your current website?
• Developing a strategy for delivering best possible user experience?
• Creating bespoke designs?
• Writing or improving content?
• Optimising for SEO
• Meeting highest technical standards including being fully responsive down to mobile
• Equipping your website with an easy-to-use content management system so you can manage content updates yourself?
OR ...
Are they 'slapping' your logo on a 'pretty' template and calling it a day?
Speed without strategy is just decoration.
Make sure those 30 days includes everything that makes a website actually work.
2. Are They Just Skimming the Surface?
If the agency isn't asking questions about your goals, your users, or what's been working / not working on your current website ... run!
A redesign isn't just a facelift - it should be a rethink of how your website supports your business.
If they're not curious, they're not serious!
3. Who's Creating the Content?
Spoiler Alert! Content takes time. Good content takes longer.
Design is just one piece of the jigsaw. Do they have the experience translating technical know-how into clear, engaging content? If not, and they're expecting you to handle it, then that 30-day promise is suddenly looking a bit shakier!
Or, if they're planning on using outdated material on your existing site, then you're not getting a real upgrade.
The language and tone of your words needs to be just right too and needs careful consideration.
4. So ... Real Deal or Wishful Thinking?
In our experience, we know that content is often the main cause of delay in websites. Written content aside, new photography and video can take weeks to arrange.
The message here - Collating all the right text and visuals takes time.
Rushing this part of the process never ends well.
5. Is the Design really Bespoke?
Your brand is unique. Your website should be too!
Quick turnaround offers often mean cookie-cutter / generic templates. That's not necessarily bad in some cases, but if you want your site to reflect who you are, set you apart from your competitors and convert the right people, then you are going to need more than just plug and play!
6. What If The Project Runs Over?
We know how difficult it is to estimate how long a project will take. Building a website is more often than not, an ever-evolving process with clients making changes, requiring additional sections as after-thoughts and so on, all of which we see as part of the project.
However, if you've been guaranteed project delivery within 30 days, make sure you know who's responsibility that is and what happens on day 31.
Ensure you have a contingency plan and are fully aware of any consequences.
7. What Happens After Go-Live?
Your company never stops evolving and neither should your website. You'll need to update it regularly.
Will your website be equipped with an easy-to-use content management system (CMS) that you have access to, or will you have to go back to the developer every time you want to make even a small change?
In addition to content and functionality updates, all websites need maintenance and system updates from time to time - will your developer be around to support you post launch for this or if anything should go wrong?
8. The Bottom Line
A 30 day redesign may be possible, but only if
• Your scope is watertight
• Your content is ready
• You've got the right partner
• Expectations are crystal clear
Speed isn't the enemy, but rushing in without thinking is. So, if you're tempted by the promise of fast results, just make sure that you're not trading long-term impact for short-term convenience.
Your website isn't just a brochure - it's your hardest working asset in a competitive industry.
Whether you're bidding on large contracts, showcasing technical capabilities or attracting skilled talent, your site needs to build trust, prove credibility and drive growth.
But that only happens when it's built on a deep understanding of your operation - your processes, your clients, your sector and your growth goals.
Rush the strategy and the cracks start to show...
• The wrong messaging
• Missed Contract Opportunities
• Lost leads from decision makers who can't see your value
• A potentially attractive website that fails to speak the language of your industry
In Manufacturing, Engineering and Construction, reputation is everything. If you're going to invest in a website, make it a tool that works as hard as you do. Taking time over your website is the foundation for results.
If you're looking for a website agency that takes the time to do things right, puts your customers first and builds websites that drive growth, please get in touch.
OR
To see examples of our websites, click here
