Do I need a WEB site?

Many businesses rely increasingly on websites to provide information 24 hours a day to current and potential customers. The absence of a website may negatively affect your customers’ perception of your business.

Although your customers may usually request your goods or services in person, many will expect to be able to find out about your business without contacting you directly.

Your business may benefit from a website that allows customers to interact online. This would usually include:

• a description of your goods, products and services
• one or more online forms for enquiries and orders
• local branch details and opening times
• contact information

If you are a limited company or a limited liability partnership, your website will also need to include, by law, your:

• registered name
• registered office and addresses
• registered number 
• VAT number (if VAT registered)
• membership details of any trade or professional association

You will also have to provide an email address. If you include prices on your website, they must be clear and unambiguous. Also, state whether prices are inclusive of tax and delivery costs.

The website will become a shop window for your goods and services and form a crucial communication channel with existing and prospective customers.

Regular updates are key to maintaining interest and generating repeat visits to your site. When you commission this type of website ensure that you: budget for the cost of maintenance and updates have processes in place to respond to the enquiries it will generate from customers.

Websites of this type can are likely to cost from £750 to build. This price may include maintenance costs for a limited time, such as a year. However, expect to pay upwards of at least £200 per year thereafter, depending on the complexity of your needs.

For more information see our guide on planning for e-commerce.