7 top tips for corporate website projects
In the coming weeks, APA Group will have a new corporate website (exciting!) which got me thinking about the top tips I'd share with someone who is embarking on this sort of project.
In my time in corporate Australia with APA Group , AGL , BHP , and Coca-Cola Europacific Partners (then Coca-Cola Amatil), I’ve managed several website and intranet redevelopment projects. Here are the seven lessons I’ve learned that will help you as you take the first step on your digital journey...
Tip 1: The quest for the perfect digital partner
Choosing the right digital agency is a critical first step. It's not simply about finding a company with a flashy portfolio and a long list of services. It's about finding a partner who understands your business goals, your culture, and your vision for the website.
Think of it like a long-term relationship. You'll be spending countless hours working with this agency, so it's crucial to find a team that you gel with, communicate effectively with, and trust implicitly.
Look for an agency that is responsive, proactive, and genuinely invested in your success. Don't rush the selection process. Take the time to get to know different agencies, ask plenty of questions, and choose a partner that feels like a natural extension of your own team.
Tip 2: The power of inquisitiveness
Knowledge is power, and the key to acquiring knowledge is asking questions. Never underestimate the importance of seeking clarification, even if the question seems obvious or trivial. Remember, no one expects you to be an expert in every aspect of website development. By asking questions, you not only gain a deeper understanding of the process but also demonstrate your commitment to making informed decisions.
A good digital partner will welcome your questions and patiently provide clear and comprehensive answers. This open dialogue fosters trust, strengthens the client-agency relationship, and ultimately leads to better project outcomes.
In my experience, a willingness to ask questions has been instrumental in building long-lasting and mutually beneficial partnerships.
Top 3: Cultivating strong internal relationships
Website projects involve many stakeholders across different teams in your company. Building and maintaining strong relationships with these individuals is paramount to success. Effective collaboration, clear communication, and mutual respect are the cornerstones of a cohesive project team. Take the time to understand the perspectives and priorities of different stakeholders. Actively seek their input, address their concerns, and acknowledge their contributions. A strong network of internal relationships can help you navigate challenges, gain buy-in for your ideas, and ultimately deliver a website that meets the needs of the entire company.
Remember, a successful website project is a team effort, and strong internal relationships are the glue that holds the team together.
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Tip 4: Breaking free from convention
A website project provides a valuable opportunity to re-evaluate existing practices and embrace new thinking. Don't be afraid to challenge the status quo and explore new approaches. Think creatively about how you can leverage the latest technologies and design trends to create a website that is both engaging and effective.
However, while it's important to push boundaries, it's equally important to stay true to your organization's core values and brand identity. Your website should reflect your company's purpose. Find the sweet spot between innovation and tradition to create a website that is both modern and authentic.
Tip 5: Mastering the art of communication
Effective communication is the lifeblood of any successful project, and website development is no exception.
Remember, communication is a two-way street. Listen attentively to the input of others and be willing to adapt your approach as needed. Clear, consistent, and transparent communication builds trust, fosters collaboration, and ensures that everyone is on the same page.
Tip 6: ?The importance of rigorous testing
Thorough testing is an essential step in any website development project. It's the only way to ensure that your website functions correctly and provides a positive user experience. Conduct comprehensive testing across different devices, browsers, and operating systems to identify and address any issues before launch. Don't just rely on automated testing tools. Enlist real users to perform user acceptance testing (UAT) and provide feedback on their experience. Remember, a website is never truly finished. Ongoing testing and optimisation are crucial to maintaining a high-quality user experience.
Tip 7: Sharing the journey through progress updates
Transparency is key to building trust and maintaining momentum throughout a website project. Regularly share progress updates with stakeholders, highlighting achievements, addressing challenges, and outlining next steps. Use a variety of communication channels, such as email newsletters, project dashboards, and presentations, to keep everyone informed. Celebrate milestones and acknowledge the contributions of team members. By sharing the journey, you create a sense of shared ownership and ensure that everyone feels invested in the project's success.
I'm always eager to learn from the experiences of others. What valuable lessons have you learned from your own website projects? Please share your insights in the comments below!
Photo by Nao Triponez: https://www.pexels.com/photo/shallow-focus-photography-of-macbook-792199/
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