1 in 3 businesses have no time to improve their website
- 71 per cent aim to increase online revenue this year
- 1 in 4 consider reducing use of external website consultants
27 April 2009, Gloucester, UK: 1 in 3 UK businesses (33 per cent) admit to neglecting necessary changes to their website because they lack the time to address them, according to research revealed today by Fasthosts Internet Ltd, (www.fasthosts.co.uk), a leading web hosting company. The survey of 145 UK businesses found that whilst two thirds of firms know of aspects of their website that require attention, around one third (32 per cent) repeatedly neglect making the changes in favour of spending the time on other aspects of the business. The average small company rates their website at 6 out of 10 for effectiveness, but also aims to treble the income generated by their website during 2009. The research suggests a clear discrepancy between business owners’ online ambitions and how much time they currently invest.
As their shop window to the world, the majority of UK companies recognise that having a web presence is a vital aspect of modern business. However, the vast majority of businesses (69 per cent) are aware of aspects of their website that are in need of attention. 1 in 4 companies (27 per cent) are unhappy with their website design and a further 25 per cent are concerned that their website lacks methods to communicate with customers. 1 in 5 (20 per cent) seek additional ecommerce functionality, 18 per cent need to replace outdated images, and around 1 in 10 wish to replace their entire website.
Whilst there are plenty of products and services on the market to help enhance a business website, 1 in 3 owners admit to being floored by a simple lack of time. During the first quarter of 2009, a further 32 per cent have repeatedly sidelined changes to their website after prioritising other off-line areas of their enterprise. For 23 per cent of businesses the issue is a lack of funds, and 3 per cent simply forget to progress the work. The figures are in alarming contrast to the tough targets that the same businesses have set themselves for online activity this year. Some 71 per cent have the aim to increase their overall visibility on the Web during 2009. Over half of businesses (55 per cent) aim to grow the size of their website in the coming year, and 1 in 5 (22 per cent) intend to begin online advertising efforts. 1 in 4 companies (24 per cent) were either using social networks to promote sales, or were planning to explore this area this year.
Significantly, the average business currently earns 10 per cent of its total sales revenue as a direct result of its website, but as part of its plans for 2009, seeks to increase this income to between 21-30 per cent of total sales revenue during the coming year. For at least 1 in 3 businesses, it is unlikely that such online growth can be achieved without addressing outstanding website issues.
Steve Holford, CMO Fasthosts Internet, said "In challenging economic conditions, business owners are more stretched for time and resources than ever. However, it is important to remember that often the simplest improvements to a website can make a noticeable impact on sales conversion rates. Even a modest business website must receive regular attention to fulfil its potential".
Fasthosts' research would suggest that UK businesses risk missing their online targets unless they can prioritise the work that their websites require. The issue is further supported by the fact that 1 in 4 respondents (26 per cent) admit that a tough operating conditions has either already led them or may still lead them to cut-back on external consultants for their website such as web designers or IT advisors.
The majority of companies (47 per cent) admit that they are currently finding competing online to be 'challenging'. The average business appraises its own website to score 60 per cent for overall effectiveness, perhaps indicating that even small companies are realistic about the expectations of online shoppers today.
However, British businesses remain committed to conquering the Web. As UK online spending continues to snowball, business owners clearly recognise the value in investing in an online presence. Some 94 per cent believe that every size of enterprise should have a website, and 79 per cent would not wish to go back to the days of solely off-line trading.
Holford added, "Businesses can often find the Internet to be as challenging as the high street. However, a big flashy website is not a prerequisite to achieving online sales growth. With a realistic online strategy and a consistent commitment of time and resource, every enterprise can better achieve their online potential this year".
As a leading web host, Fasthosts offers a comprehensive range of web solutions including domain name registrations, email solutions (including mobile email services), shared web hosting, dedicated servers, online payment services, reseller web hosting and feature-rich broadband packages.
For more information on Fasthosts, see the website at www.fasthosts.co.uk
