We’ve all seen them, really, no REALLY bad websites, but then we also know that one man’s rubbish is another man’s treasure, so are they truly bad per se or just bad IMHO?

Well I believe in every drop of rain that falls – oh sorry that’s the wrong rant. I believe that the proof of the pudding is in the success of the website, and on that note there are thousands of truly bad (unsuccessful) ones.

I regularly use analogies and sayings in my job and many of them are, I’m afraid, car related, but I have one which isn’t; “you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make it drink” – I have no idea if this is actually true or not as I’ve never tried, but I can imagine that if I tried to force a horse’s head into the water I would probably struggle. However, that’s not the point is it? The point is that where websites are concerned there are two basic problems; getting people to visit them and then getting them to do something once they are there, i.e. pick up the phone and call you, send you an email or buy something from your site.

So we website owners have two basic problems,

1. How do we lead them in – this is Search Engine Marketing,
2. How do we make them drink – design and ease of use.

So the answer to the initial question, "Why are there so many bad and underperforming websites?" is quite simple, most websites are not created with both human beings and search engines in mind – blimey that was easy.

In my experience it is always prudent to get a professional to put your website together. Although this may seem heavy on your pocket initially, in the long run it will prove to be a good investment and the initial layout will pay for itself 10 fold.

A web designer who not only has an eye for design but understands the importance of functionality. A web designer who has the ability to focus on both a look that reflects you and your branding as well as a functionality that satisfies search engines and browsers, providing a pleasant user experience and a solid search engine optimisation is the key to ALL websites.

To understand what I mean visit my website www.specnet.co.uk/portfolio.asp and experience some of the website my business has created. By exploring these I hope you will understand a pleasant user experience.

All our websites are designed on the what I like to call the RONSEAL approach. "It does what it says on the can". Each website tells you with both images and text, what they do and what they provide. Each website has a navigation system that is easy to use, even for your granny. And each web page provides the viewer with contact details.

Is your website designed in the same manner? If not, why not? If you are unsure then get a friend, family member or business associate to take a look at your website and comment truthfully on it. Your granny is always a good test of your website. If she can't use it then rethink it.

If you would like me to provide a FREE evaluation of your website then simply go here www.specnet.co.uk/contactus.asp and complete the form.

Take a second look at your website and don't be the owner of one of the "so many bad or underperforming websites!"