Small business websites left to ‘languish’
Small business owners may need convincing of the financial advantages to maintaining their websites, an internet expert has suggested.
The British Computer Society’s (BSC) Internet Specialist Group has warned that poorly-run websites and complacency in their upkeep mean they fall by the wayside in terms of visitors.
Howard Gerlis, chairman of the BSC Specialist Group, said: "After the initial excitement, unless it is properly maintained and kept regularly updated, it can languish very quickly."
A recent survey by Netflare Ltd revealed that up to 38 per cent of businesses had not spent money modernising their website. A further 23 per cent had not overhauled their website for approximately four years.
However, up to 23 per cent of small business owners did report successful sales through their website. Some are requesting improvements to their web pages as technical elements, such as search engine optimisation, evolves.
"Though most need convincing that it’s worth the financial investment. Often the most influential catalyst is the competition," added Mr Gerlis.
