Know-How Exchange : Website Critique

I'm not sure what your marketing goals are, or if you are counting on any traffic via search engines, but if so, there's a HUGE problem with the site. The site is built on tables, with the main navigation as graphics being driven with javascript rollovers. In 2009, there is absolutely no reason to do this, with CSS and html so robust and supported. Tables and image-based navigation that relies on javascript both are SEO no-no's. Also, that header on the top is huge, pushing important content below the fold. If you're going to use that much real estate on imagery, give the samples of you work more of the space.

Bill

I got VistaPrint at first too. I had to type the URL in my browser to reach your actual site.

In addition to Mike's excellent advice, I advise you to (if possible) get the VistaPrint logo off your site. The price isn't the problem, it's the service they're providing. I'm paying $10 a month to Hostgator and I don't have to put their logo on my pages. Also, I recommend that you do not use a template provided by your host. If you decide to change hosts (or have a disagreement) you will lose your site's design!

I have a web site checklist on my blog (re-posted below since linking directly is a no-no).

1. _____ Is your site mostly one color?

2. _____ Is it easy to read? (What size and color is the font? Does it show up against the background color, or blend in?)

3. _____ How long does the site take to load? Do you have to wait to see the images?

4. _____ Is the copy about you? Or about your customers?

5. _____ Does the copy talk about what problems you solve?

6. _____ Is it easy to contact you? Phone? Email? Address?

7. _____ Is it easy to navigate your site?

8. _____ Do you have an ideal customer? Or do you "sell to everybody"? Hint: Selling to everyone is selling to nobody.

9. _____ If you do have an ideal customer, who are they? Can you describe them?

10. _____ Are you remarkable? Does your site explain why?

Everyone's advice above is great so I only want to add to their suggestions.

Photo gallery is a great idea - why not integrate Flickr into the site and then those photos are searchable on Flickr too (e.g. https://flickr.com/photos/andreasnilsson1976/2679464374/). Flickr isn't seo compatible for search engines, but it's set-up allows for descriptions that would be great as an information and education source to viewers. Plus Flickr is in the social media realm.

A strong call to action on every page is a must.

You may consider forming a Facebook Fan page as well. Pages are optimized for google, searchable within FB and allows great engagement (and are really easy too!). (e.g. https://tinyurl.com/bhujda)...Facebook Ads will compliment this too. (and you can upload your Flickr pics to this page too!)

For seo > use the hubspot report. It's the best resource out there in that category.

When you can invest money, get a web designer to worry about the website ins and outs so you can focus your energies on what you're best at within your company. Daniel Quinn is great, affordable and on top of the latest trends (https://www.dquinn.net/portfolio/)

Best of luck!
Helen

ps: I love the scholarship program; it's socially responsible and builds a positive association with your company - great idea!