Your website often acts as a digital shop window, where potential customers can explore your products or services and get a sense of your brand.

When it comes to keeping your website effective and engaging, there are different levels of updates you can consider: a reskin, a refresh, or a full website redesign.

Each option caters to different needs and budgets, offering varying degrees of visual and functional changes.

In this blog, we’ll focus on the website refresh, a smart middle ground that updates and modernises your site without the disruption of a full rebuild.

HOW A WEBSITE REFRESH WORKS

A refresh selectively updates certain parts of your website including the content, layout, navigation, and design elements, all while keeping the existing structure and backend.

It’s more extensive than a reskin but less involved than a full redesign, creating a balance between visual updates and performance improvements.

This means it’s an ideal option for businesses wanting to modernise their site and boost engagement without starting from scratch.

WHAT’S TYPICALLY INCLUDED IN A REFRESH

A website refresh generally covers key updates across content, design, and user experience, helping your site feel more modern and functional.

Typical refreshes include:

• Reviewing and improving accessibility, layout, and responsiveness
• Updating key pages with new content, images, or calls-to-action
• Redesigning pages to better support content and conversion goals
• Refining navigation for a smoother user journey
• Introducing new sections or components where needed
• Enhancing visual design for consistency and alignment with updated branding
• Light performance improvements, such as optimising page load speed

WHO IS A WEBSITE REFRESH SUITED TO

A refresh is ideal for businesses that want to improve how their website looks and functions without completely rebuilding it.

It suits companies that have experienced brand growth, want to reflect updated messaging, or feel their current site isn’t engaging users effectively.

Essentially, if you’re looking for a meaningful update while keeping the core structure, a refresh is a perfect fit.

You can also explore our blog on the key signs your website needs updating to see if a refresh is the right choice for your business.

KEY BENEFITS OF A WEBSITE REFRESH

Refreshing your website allows you to modernise its look and feel, enhance the user experience, and incorporate brand or content updates, while keeping the core structure intact.

The result is a site that feels fresh, engaging, and aligned with your current brand identity, without the time, disruption, or expense of a full rebuild.

Beyond visual improvements, refreshing also provides the chance to fine-tune functionality, optimise navigation for a smoother user journey, and address accessibility considerations, ensuring every visitor can interact with your site effectively.

Additionally, it offers an opportunity to improve performance, update calls-to-action, and better support your business objectives, making your website more effective at engaging and converting users.

WHAT A REFRESH WON’T COVER

While a website refresh can deliver meaningful improvements, it’s important to understand its limitations:

It does not involve rebuilding the entire framework or replacing your content management system.

It won’t fix deeply embedded technical issues, legacy code, or large-scale performance problems.

For websites that are outdated, poorly structured, or require substantial functional improvements, a full redesign is usually the better option.

HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU REFRESH YOUR WEBSITE

There isn’t a fixed schedule for when a website should be refreshed, it depends on your industry, business growth, and how quickly your brand or content evolves.

As a guideline, reviewing your website every 12–24 months can help keep it visually appealing, functional, and aligned with your business goals.

Regular refreshes ensure your site continues to engage visitors and support conversions without the time and cost of a full rebuild.

LOOKING TO GIVE YOUR WEBSITE A FRESH, MODERN FEEL?

As a leading web development agency can guide you through every stage of a website refresh, from planning and design to development and compliance checks.

By carefully updating your site’s content, layout, and visuals, we make sure it looks polished, functions seamlessly, and reflects your brand, all without the cost or disruption of a full redesign.

Contact us on info@edge-creative.com or call 0121 355 8092.

A website redesign is the most comprehensive way to update your online presence. Unlike a refresh or reskin, it involves building a brand-new site from the ground up, covering everything from the structure and design to content, features, and backend systems.

A well-planned redesign also creates a strong foundation for SEO, with a clear structure and optimised content that helps your site rank better in search engines.

In this blog, we’ll focus on the website redesign, the most comprehensive approach, which rebuilds your site from the ground up to improve performance, user experience, and long-term growth.

WHAT DOES A WEBSITE REDESIGN COVER?

A full redesign goes beyond visual updates, it’s a complete rebuild of your website. This means you can address performance issues, implement new technologies, and create a user-friendly design that aligns with your business goals.

Typically, website redesign services include:

• Security enhancements and compliance updates
• Full review and restructure of the user experience (UX)
• Creation of a new sitemap
• Complete content overhaul or creation of new content
• Development or integration of new backend systems or CMS
• Implementation of enhanced functionality and features
• Optimisation for performance, speed, and mobile responsiveness
• Accessibility improvements to meet current standards

WHO IS A WEBSITE REDESIGN SUITED TO?

A redesign is suited to businesses that need more than a visual update.

If your current website has outdated technology, poor performance, or structural problems, a full rebuild is often the best solution.

It’s also the right choice if you’re rebranding, expanding your services, or want a scalable platform that can adapt as your business grows.

For new businesses, this level of website project ensures you start with a professional, adaptable site.

Explore more of the key signs your website needs updating in our recent blog.

THE KEY BENEFITS OF A REDESIGN

A complete website redesign can set your business up for long-term success by creating a site that’s fully aligned with your brand, audience, and digital goals.

It delivers a fresh, user-friendly design that makes a strong first impression, combined with faster performance and stronger security to give visitors a smooth and safe browsing experience.

From the outset, it’s built with SEO best practices and accessibility in mind, helping you reach a wider audience and rank more effectively in search engines.

With scalable features that can grow alongside your business and a solid foundation for ongoing marketing campaigns, a redesigned website is built to perform today and be flexible for the future.

A TYPICAL WEBSITE REDESIGN TIMELINE

A website redesign project follows a clear process to ensure the final site looks great and performs effectively.

Discovery & Planning – Review business goals, user needs, and technical requirements. Includes competitor research and content audits.

Site Architecture – Create a new sitemap and wireframes to improve navigation and search engine understanding.

Design – Develop visual designs that reflect your brand and appeal to your audience.

Content Migration & Creation (optional) – Update and move existing content and create new copy to support SEO and engagement.

Development – Build the website for performance, security, and scalability. Integrate CMS, plugins, and third-party tools as needed.

Testing & QA – Check functionality, responsiveness, and compliance across devices and browsers.

Launch – Deploy the new site with a coordinated plan to minimise downtime and maximise visibility.

This structured approach delivers a future-ready website built for your goals from day one.

KEEPING YOUR WEBSITE PERFORMING AFTER LAUNCH

The redesign is only the beginning of your website’s journey. To keep it performing at its best, you’ll need a clear plan for ongoing optimisation and upkeep.

An effective search engine optimisation strategy is essential to protect and improve your search rankings, covering areas like redirects, and regular indexing checks.

Routine website maintenance should also be in place to apply updates, patches, and security fixes, ensuring your site remains secure and fully functional. In addition, fresh and engaging content should be added regularly to keep your website relevant, showcase your expertise, and reflect your evolving business goals.

By combining these ongoing efforts with the strong foundations of a well-executed redesign, your website can continue to deliver results and support growth long after launch.

READY TO UTILISE OUR WEBSITE REDESIGN SERVICES?

If you’re ready to transform your online presence, our website redesign services can help you create a modern, high-performing site that’s built for the future.

Our web development agency will guide you through every stage of the process, from strategy and design to launch and beyond, ensuring your new website reflects your brand, engages your audience, and supports your business goals.

Start your project today, email info@edge-creative.com or call us on 0121 355 8092.

A website that looked cutting-edge a few years ago can start to feel tired surprisingly quickly. Design trends move on, brand styles evolve, and what once felt modern can soon appear dated.

When you’re looking to improve your website, you’ll usually be weighing up three main options: a reskin, a refresh, or a full website redesign.

Each offers a different level of change, catering to different goals, timescales, and budgets.

In this blog, we’re focusing on reskinning a website, exploring when it’s the right choice, what’s typically involved, and how it can give your site a new look without the commitment of a full overhaul.

WHAT IS A WEBSITE RESKIN?

A website reskin is the process of updating your site’s design elements without changing its core structure or functionality.

It’s a cost-effective and efficient way to breathe new life into a site that still works well but is starting to look outdated. Unlike a full rebuild, a reskin keeps your existing structure and content in place, focusing instead on visual updates and minor layout tweaks.

It’s often used as a short-term solution to improve a website’s look and feel, and can be useful for showcasing a recent rebrand, acting as a stepping stone towards a full redesign in the future.

WHAT’S TYPICALLY INCLUDED IN A REFRESH

A website refresh generally covers key updates across content, design, and user experience, helping your site feel more modern and functional.

Typical refreshes include:

• Reviewing and improving accessibility, layout, and responsiveness
• Updating key pages with new content, images, or calls-to-action
• Redesigning pages to better support content and conversion goals
• Refining navigation for a smoother user journey
• Introducing new sections or components where needed
• Enhancing visual design for consistency and alignment with updated branding
• Light performance improvements, such as optimising page load speed

WHAT DOES A WEBSITE RESKIN INCLUDE?

While the exact scope will vary depending on your site’s needs, a typical website reskin focuses on visual updates and small design improvements rather than structural changes.

Common elements include:

• Ensuring visual and branding consistency across all pages
• Updating colours, fonts, and imagery
• Making minor layout tweaks to improve visual appeal
• Adjusting spacing, font sizes, and contrast for accessibility
• Swapping out basic content and images

WHO IS IT FOR?

A website reskin is best suited to businesses making minor brand updates or those wanting to give their site a visual lift without committing to the cost of a full rebuild.

It’s particularly useful for organisations working with shorter timescales or tighter budgets, and for websites that remain structurally sound but are beginning to look dated in design.

If the existing site functions well, is mobile-friendly, and offers a good user experience, a reskin can provide a quick and effective update.

Explore the key signs your website needs updating in our recent blog.

THE KEY BENEFITS OF A WEBSITE RESKIN

The main advantage of a website reskin is that it delivers a fresh, modern look with minimal disruption.

Because the site’s structure remains intact, existing SEO rankings are preserved while the design is brought in line with current branding.

It’s a faster process than a full redevelopment, often taking weeks rather than months, and it avoids the higher costs associated with a complete rebuild.

By focusing on design changes rather than starting from scratch, a reskin allows businesses to quickly adapt their online presence to match evolving branding or market trends.

This makes it an efficient way to improve user perception, maintain audience engagement, and ensure your site remains visually competitive.

WHAT DOESN’T A WEBSITE RESKIN COVER

While a reskin is a great way to refresh the visual design of a website, it does have limitations.

A reskin won’t improve the underlying performance of your site, such as loading speed or efficiency, nor will it add new features or functionality.

It also won’t fix structural issues, outdated code, or mobile responsiveness problems, these require a more in-depth website refresh or redesign.

Essentially, a reskin focuses purely on aesthetics and branding, so if your site is struggling with usability, navigation, or technical performance, a full redesign may be necessary to address these deeper issues.

CAN I RESKIN A WEBSITE THEME?

For businesses using a pre-built theme, it’s often possible to achieve a reskin without starting from scratch. Whether your website is built on WordPress, Shopify, or another CMS, a reskin can involve adjusting theme settings, updating fonts and imagery, and applying small CSS tweaks to refresh the overall look.

However, the extent of the changes depends on the flexibility of your existing theme, some themes allow extensive customisation, while others are more restrictive.

As a result, the visual update may be more modest than a full rebuild or theme replacement, but it can still give your site a noticeably fresher appearance with minimal disruption.

READY TO REFRESH YOUR WEBSITE?

As a leading brand development agency our designers work in collaboration with our website developers on every step of the reskin process.

We start by agreeing on key visual updates, such as colours, fonts, imagery, and accessibility tweaks.

These changes are then applied on a staging site, giving you the chance to review before everything goes live, while we also ensure all compliance elements are up to date. Contact us today to give your website a polished, refreshed look that reflects your brand.

Email info@edge-creative.com or call us on 0121 355 8092.

Your website is often the first online interaction a potential customer has with your business.

However, even the best websites can fall behind if they don’t evolve with your business, audience expectations, and technology.

Recognising the signs your website needs updating can help you decide whether you should reskin, refresh, or redesign.

As a leading website development agency, we often hear the question: “Do I need a new website?” In this blog, we’ll explore the answer and outline the best options depending on which parts of your site need improving.

THE MAIN DIFFERENCES BETWEEN A WEBSITE RESKIN, REFRESH, AND REDESIGN

A website reskin updates the visual elements like colours, fonts, and graphics without altering functionality.

A website refresh goes further, improving usability, reorganising content, and optimising calls-to-action to boost engagement.

A website redesign, on the other hand, involves overhauling the structure, layout, and functionality to align your site with new business goals or modern standards.

Understanding these differences helps you choose the right approach when it comes to updating your site. Below we’ve broken down the key signs that indicate whether a reskin, refresh, or redesign is needed, so you can make an informed decision.

YOUR WEBSITE DOESN’T ALIGN WITH BUSINESS GOALS

If your website no longer reflects your business objectives, it can confuse visitors and hold back growth. Outdated content, irrelevant messaging, or poorly placed key pages can all create barriers for potential customers.

For instance, if your business has recently consolidated or expanded its services, your homepage, service pages, and calls-to-action may no longer reflect what your audience needs.

When your goals evolve, simply changing the look of your site isn’t enough. You’ll likely need to update the functionality, content, and user journeys. A full redesign is the best way to ensure your website matches with your current direction and supports your business growth.

Recommendation: Redesign

YOUR WEBSITE VISTORS AREN’T CONVERTING

If visitors aren’t taking the actions you want, whether that’s making a purchase, requesting a quote, or signing up to a newsletter, it’s a clear sign your website isn’t guiding them effectively.

Common issues can include poorly placed calls-to-action, confusing navigation, or content that doesn’t provide value. Low engagement could also suggest your site isn’t building enough trust with your audience.

In many cases, a refresh can resolve these challenges by improving usability, reorganising content, and optimising calls-to-action. However, if the problem lies deeper in the site’s structure, a full redesign may be the best option.

Recommendation: Refresh

YOUR WEBSITE ISN’T RESPONSIVE

With more people browsing on mobile devices than ever before, a site that isn’t mobile-friendly risks losing a large portion of your audience.

Non-responsive websites often suffer from broken layouts, misaligned text, or buttons that are too small to tap. Not only does this frustrate visitors, but it can also hurt your search engine rankings.

Achieving high levels of responsiveness usually means rebuilding page templates and layouts so they adapt seamlessly across devices. A simple reskin won’t fix the underlying structural issues affecting mobile performance.

Recommendation: Redesign

YOUR WEBSITE HAS SLOW LOADING TIMES

Visitors expect fast websites, and most will leave if a page takes more than a few seconds to load.

Slow performance can stem from a high number of unoptimised images, a slow server or hosting, or heavy scripts. Beyond frustrating users, poor loading times can also hurt your search engine rankings, limiting organic traffic.

Smaller fixes like compressing images or cleaning up code can usually be tackled with a refresh. But if your site suffers from deeper technical issues, a full redesign may be needed to achieve lasting improvements.

Recommendation: Refresh

YOUR WEBSITE DESIGN IS OUTDATED

Design trends change quickly, and a dated-looking website can make your brand appear less credible.

Signs of an outdated design might include a desktop-only layout that isn’t mobile-friendly, generic stock imagery, cluttered layouts, or a colour palette that no longer reflects your brand identity. Even if your site works well, poor visual appeal can still drive potential customers away.

A reskin can address these issues by updating visuals, colours, fonts, and graphics without changing the core functionality. However, if design problems are paired with usability challenges, a refresh may be the better option, or in some severe instances, a redesign could be the only solution.

Recommendation: Reskin

YOUR WEBSITE IS DIFFICULT TO NAVIGATE

If your website is hard to navigate, visitors will quickly leave.

Confusing menus, inconsistent layouts, and unclear calls-to-action make it difficult for users to find information or complete tasks. Even with strong content, poor navigation can increase bounce rates and reduce conversions.

In many cases, navigation can be improved through a refresh, by reorganising content, refining menus, and making calls-to-action clearer. A full redesign is only needed if the site’s overall structure is challenging for users or confusing.

Recommendation: Refresh

YOUR WEBSITE NEEDS UPDATING BECAUSE YOU’VE REBRANDED

If you’ve updated your logo, colour palette, or overall brand identity, your website should reflect those changes to maintain consistency.

Mixed branding can confuse visitors, reduce trust, and weaken the impact of your wider marketing efforts.

In most cases, updating visuals to match your new brand is enough. However, if the rebrand also involves new messaging or a different content structure, a refresh will help ensure your website fully aligns with your updated identity.

Recommendation: Refresh

YOUR WEBSITE HAS LIMITED FUNCTIONALITY

Older websites often struggle to keep up with modern integrations, e-commerce platforms, and accessibility standards.

This can restrict what your site is capable of and frustrate users. Missing features such as live chat, online booking, or accessibility compliance not only impact usability but can also limit your business growth.

Overcoming these technical limitations usually requires a full rebuild. A redesign ensures your website can support modern functionality, improve performance, and help you grow.

Recommended option: Redesign

HOW EDGE CREATIVE CAN TAKE YOUR WEBSITE TO THE NEXT LEVEL

Whether you need a reskin, refresh, or redesign, it’s important to talk it through with an expert.

At EDGE Creative, we have a team made up of web developers, UX designers, CRO and SEO specialists, and content marketers to ensure every angle is covered.

From functionality and usability to search optimisation and engaging content, we provide the expertise to deliver a website that drives results and reflects your brand.

Ready to update your website and drive growth? Email info@edge-creative.com or call us on 0121 355 8092.

Your website is one of the most important resources your business has, and behind every website is your CMS (Content Management System).

Using the right CMS makes it easy to scale your site as your business grows without needing to rely on a developer for every small change.

However, with so many platforms available, choosing the right best CMS can feel overwhelming. In this blog, we’ll break down what a CMS is and explore the most popular options, whether you’re building a blog, an eCommerce store, or a fully bespoke site.

WHAT IS A CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM?

A Content Management System (CMS) is a platform that allows you to create, manage, and edit digital content on your website without needing advanced technical skills. Designed to be user-friendly, it gives individuals and teams the tools to update websites quickly and efficiently. Each CMS platform offers different features depending on your needs, whether you’re running a blog, an online store, or a full business website.

WHY USE A CMS?

In 2025, your website isn’t just a digital brochure, it’s a core part of how your business communicates, converts, and grows. It needs to be fast, flexible, secure, and always up to date.

That’s where a Content Management System (CMS) proves invaluable.

If you’re still wondering, “Why use a CMS?” A better question might be, “Why wouldn’t you?”

One major advantage is that content and code are kept separate. Therefore, you don’t need to rely on a developer for everyday changes. Updating your homepage, publishing a blog, or swapping out an image can all be done in a few clicks.

Many CMS platforms also support team collaboration, so multiple people can work on content at once, track edits, and keep messaging consistent, which is especially useful for growing or remote teams.

In short, your CMS helps you stay agile, efficient, and in control of your digital presence – all essential in today’s fast-moving online world.

WHAT CMS SHOULD I USE?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing a Content Management System. The best option for your business will depend on your goals, technical experience, and how much flexibility or control you need.

Here’s an introduction to some of the most popular CMS platforms:

WordPress – One of the most widely used platforms, WordPress is known for its flexibility and extensive plugin network. It’s suitable for everything from blogs to large business sites.

Shopify – A dedicated eCommerce platform designed to make selling online simple. It handles everything from inventory to payments, with minimal setup required.

Webflow – A visual website builder with built-in CMS features, used for creating custom websites without relying heavily on plugins or pre-made templates.

Headless CMS (e.g. Contentful, Sanity) – A modern, developer-friendly approach that separates content from presentation. Ideal for complex, multi-platform projects and advanced use cases.

With so many options available, making the right choice can sometimes feel overwhelming. Each platform has its own strengths and trade-offs, which is why it’s worth speaking to an expert web development agency before committing to any decision. The right advice can help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure your CMS meets your long-term needs, and set your site up for success from day one.

HOW OUR WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT EXPERTS CAN HELP

As a leading digital marketing and website development agency in Sutton Coldfield, EDGE Creative specialises in building bespoke websites tailored to your business’s goals.

We also offer digital marketing masterclasses for businesses looking to upskill their team’s knowledge of content management systems, so your team can feel confident making updates to your website without the need for a developer.

If you’re planning a new website, get in touch today to discuss your requirements in more detail. Call us on 0121 355 8092 or email info@edge-creative.com.

If you run a business or organisation in the UK or EU, understanding your legal obligations around website accessibility is more important than ever.

With the European Accessibility Act (EAA) now in effect, the legal obligation to meet accessibility standards has expanded.

Previously, only specific sectors, such as public sector organisations, banking, and transport were required to comply with formal accessibility regulations. Now, under the EAA, all businesses providing products or digital services to EU markets must ensure their websites and digital platforms are accessible.

Whether you’re a business owner, developer, or designer, recognising the importance of accessibility is crucial. Inclusive design not only helps your site comply with legal requirements but also creates a better experience for all users, including those with disabilities.

In this blog, we will help you understand the current requirements for website compliance and accessibility, exploring:

• Why website compliance matters more than ever
• Understanding your legal obligations with the European Accessibility Act 2025
• Core accessibility features of websites
• Web compliance guidelines to know
  

WHY WEBSITE COMPLIANCE MATTERS MORE THAN EVER

Accessible websites are a vital part of building a positive, inclusive digital experience for everyone.

Right now, millions of people rely on assistive technologies to navigate the web, and websites that ignore accessibility can leave these users excluded.

From a business perspective, overlooking accessibility means missing out on potential customers and facing legal or reputational risks. This is particularly important for UK businesses that trade in the EU, as the European Accessibility Act, (now in force as of June 2025), significantly expands accessibility requirements for e-commerce and digital services across EU member states.

Beyond compliance, inclusive design benefits everyone. Clear navigation, readable text, and logical page structures improve usability for all users, whether they have a disability or not.

While the European Accessibility Act sets clear legal obligations for businesses operating in the EU, not all organisations are legally required to meet these standards.

In the UK, there is no single digital accessibility law, but under the Equality Act 2010, businesses are required to make “reasonable adjustments” for disabled users. This means an inaccessible website could be considered discriminatory.

In addition, compliance is a legal requirement for certain sectors including public sector organisations, finance, transport, and education. Meaning formal accessibility standards must be met. By ensuring your website is accessible, you not only reduce legal risk but also create a more user-friendly experience, support better search engine performance, and show your commitment to social responsibility.

UNDERSTANDING THE EUROPEAN ACCESSIBILITY ACT 2025

As of 28 June 2025, the European Accessibility Act (EAA) is now in force across EU member states. It sets mandatory accessibility requirements for certain digital products and services, including websites, mobile apps and e-commerce platforms.

Although the UK is no longer part of the EU, UK businesses that offer digital services to consumers in the EU must still comply with the EAA. If your organisation provides online services to EU customers, such as selling products or offering digital platforms, you are required to meet these accessibility standards, even if your operations are based in the UK.

The EAA is underpinned by the European standard EN 301 549, which outlines technical accessibility criteria and closely aligns with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA. These standards help ensure that digital services are accessible to people with a range of disabilities, including visual, auditory, physical, and cognitive impairments.

UK organisations serving EU markets should review their digital offerings to ensure they comply with the requirements of the EAA. This is now a legal obligation across industries providing products or services within the EU, including e-commerce, banking, and digital services. Beyond compliance, meeting these standards also supports best practice in accessibility and inclusive design.

CORE ACCESSIBILITY FEATURES OF WEBSITES

When it comes to making websites inclusive, certain features play a vital role in ensuring everyone can access and use your content. Key accessibility features include:

Skip to content links: These allow users, especially those using screen readers or keyboard navigation, to bypass repetitive navigation menus and jump straight to the main content. It improves usability and speeds up access for those who cannot use a mouse.

Captions and transcriptions: All audio and video content should include captions or transcripts, so users who are deaf or hard of hearing can access the information. 

Alternative text for images: This allows screen readers to describe images aloud to visually impaired users. Any image that conveys important information and is not just decorative should have clear, descriptive alt text.

Keyboard navigation: Many users rely on keyboards instead of a mouse or touchscreen. A fully accessible website lets users navigate easily through all elements using only the keyboard.

Screen reader compatibility: Websites should be built using semantic HTML, so assistive technologies like screen readers can correctly interpret and present the page content.

Colour contrast and text styling: Text must stand out clearly against its background. Poor contrast or very small fonts can make reading impossible for users with visual impairments.

Clear and consistent layout: Navigation menus, buttons, and links should be easy to find and understand, helping users with cognitive disabilities navigate your site confidently.

WEBSITE COMPLIENCE GUIDELINES TO KNOW

If you’re looking to make your website inclusive and legally compliant, there are a few key standards and guidelines mentioned earlier that you need to understand.

WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines)

This is the cornerstone of web accessibility. WCAG is the global standard on which most legislation, including the European Accessibility Act, is based. The latest version is WCAG 2.1, and websites are generally expected to meet Level AA compliance.

WCAG is organised around four main principles, known as POUR:

• Perceivable: Can users see or hear the content?
• Operable: Can they navigate the site easily?
• Understandable: Is the content clear and predictable?
• Robust: Does the site work well with different devices and assistive technologies?

EN 301 549

This European standard sets accessibility requirements for ICT products and services, referencing WCAG directly. If your website complies with WCAG 2.1 AA, you’re likely already meeting EN 301 549 as well.

The Equality Act 2010 (UK)

Although not specific to digital accessibility, the Equality Act requires UK businesses to make “reasonable adjustments” for disabled users. An inaccessible website could fall short of this legal obligation, potentially exposing your business to complaints or legal action.

FUTURE-PROOFING YOUR WEBSITE

As digital accessibility requirements continue to evolve, future-proofing your website is one of the smartest investments your business can make.

It’s not just about complying with today’s regulations but also about preparing for future standards and ensuring your website can adapt as technology and legal requirements change.

With legislation like the European Accessibility Act raising the bar for inclusive design, expectations around website accessibility will only continue to grow. Businesses that prioritise accessibility now will be better positioned to build trust, reach wider audiences, and avoid costly retrofits down the line. Remember, you don’t need to overhaul everything overnight, but by making accessibility a key part of your long-term digital strategy today, you’ll make it much easier to stay compliant and create a more inclusive experience for everyone.

HOW EDGE CREATIVE CAN HELP YOU STAY INCLUSIVE

At EDGE Creative, we don’t just build websites, we make sure they’re accessible, compliant, and ready for the future.

Whether you’re launching a new site or updating an existing one, our web development and UX design agency puts accessibility at the heart of your online presence.

Ready to make your website inclusive and meet evolving accessibility standards? Call us on 0121 355 8092 or email info@edge-creative.com to start building a website that works for everyone.

Your website is the digital front door to your business – open 24/7 and visible to the world. Whether you’re selling products, publishing content, or promoting your services, keeping it secure is non-negotiable.

Website security goes beyond protecting data. It safeguards your users, your reputation, and the future of your business. A single breach can cause lasting damage – but the good news is, many risks are preventable.

By following website security best practices and building security into your site from the ground up, you can significantly reduce your chances of falling victim to cyberattacks. In this blog, the experts at our web development agency will cover why website security is important, common website security threats, and highlight website security best practices.

WHY WEBSITE SECURITY IS IMPORTANT

Cyberattacks can lead to serious consequences, from data breaches and financial loss to long-term damage to your reputation.

When your website isn’t secure, it doesn’t go unnoticed. Visitors are quick to spot browser warnings or suspicious behaviour, often abandoning your site and turning to competitors instead.

It’s not just large organisations that are targeted; small and growing businesses are often more vulnerable due to weaker security measures.

Here’s why investing in your website’s security is essential:

Customer trust – Visitors expect a secure experience – warnings or breaches can lead to lost confidence and fewer conversions.

Legal compliance – Regulations like GDPR require proper data handling and protection, and a breach can result in fines or legal consequences.

Brand reputation – Security issues can seriously harm your brand image and credibility, and it will take time to rebuild trust.

Search engine rankings – Search engines can penalise your site if it’s not secure, which can impact your search engine optimisation strategy, and make it harder for customers to find you online.

Financial protection – Attacks can cause revenue loss, especially if your site handles transactions or subscriptions.

Website uptime – Downtime caused by hacks disrupts user access and business operations, which can also result in revenue loss.

Customer data security – It’s your responsibility to protect personal data collected through forms, logins, or transactions. If your website isn’t secure, it puts this data at risk.

Business continuity – Recovering from a breach takes time and resources, delaying your business’s day-to-day operations.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON WEBSITE SECURITY THREATS

Understanding the most common cybersecurity threats is the first step towards protecting your site. These risks can affect businesses of any size and in any industry, so it’s essential to stay aware and proactive.

Some of the most common security threats include:

Malware: Short for malicious software, it is designed to gain unauthorised access, steal data, or cause damage to functionality. It can also infect your visitors’ devices, spreading the problem further.

SQL injection attacks: These occur when attackers insert malicious code into input fields (such as contact forms or search bars) to access or change your database. This can result in stolen data or even complete database compromise.

Cross-site scripting (XSS): This involves hackers injecting harmful scripts into your website content. When visitors then load the page, the script runs in their browser, potentially stealing sensitive data or redirecting them to dangerous sites.

DDoS attacks (Distributed Denial of Service): These attacks flood your website with overwhelming traffic from multiple sources, slowing it down or forcing it offline entirely.

Phishing: Phishing involves fake emails or cloned websites that trick users into revealing sensitive information like login credentials or payment details. These can be sent through your website if security isn’t tight.

Outdated software and plugins: Hackers frequently target outdated systems, so neglecting to update your CMS, themes, or plugins can leave known vulnerabilities exposed.

FOCUSING ON WEBSITE SECURITY BEST PRACTICES

Website security is an ongoing effort. Instead of thinking about individual tools or tactics, it helps to focus on the areas that make the biggest impact:

Encryption and trust signals – Secure websites that use HTTPS and SSL certificates provide more than just data protection, they demonstrate credibility to both users and search engines. This builds confidence and can improve search visibility.

Staying updated – Outdated software is one of the most common entry points for attacks. By prioritising regular updates, businesses benefit from ongoing protection against known threats, without needing to overhaul their systems.

Access control – Good access management reduces unnecessary risk. Clear user roles and secure login processes, such as two-factor authentication, ensure that only the right people have access to sensitive areas of your site.

Reliable backups – A solid backup strategy acts as a safety net. In the event of a cyberattack or technical error, the ability to quickly restore your site helps minimise downtime and data loss, protecting both reputation and revenue.

Scalable security measures – Security needs evolve as your business grows. From simple firewalls to advanced monitoring systems, scalable solutions ensure that protection keeps pace with your expansion, without compromising performance.

HOW EDGE CREATIVE CAN KEEP YOUR WEBSITE SECURE

At EDGE Creative, we not only build websites, but we ensure they’re protected and secure.

Our ongoing website maintenance packages are designed to keep your website updated, backed up, and safe from threats. If you need long-term protection for your website, our team of experts are here to help! Call us on 0121 355 8092 or email info@edge-creative.com to learn more.

Think of your website as the shop window to your business. It’s often the first thing people see, so it needs to make a great impression. It should show off what you do best, explain how you can help, and give people a reason to choose you.

But looking good isn’t enough on its own. If you’re not keeping your website secure and up to date, it could end up doing more harm than good.

A poorly maintained site is more at higher risk of cyber threats, suffer from slow performance, or stop functioning altogether, and that can quickly drive potential customers away.

You wouldn’t leave your office unlocked overnight, so why leave your website unprotected?

That’s where a website maintenance plan comes in. With regular updates, security checks, and ongoing support, it keeps your site running smoothly and your business safe.

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO KEEP YOUR WEBSITE UP TO DATE?

As technology progresses, so do the tools that power your website. Without regular maintenance, your website’s software and plugins can quickly become outdated, and that’s when problems start.

Software updates often include important security patches designed to fix bugs and close off vulnerabilities before they’re exploited.

The last thing you want is for your website to go down because of an avoidable issue, particularly if you run an ecommerce business, where any downtime can directly impact your bottom line.

Without a solid website care plan in place, small problems can quickly snowball into major disruptions. But it’s not just online stores that are at risk.

Even if your website acts more like a digital brochure, showcasing your work or attracting new leads, a cyber-attack can seriously damage your reputation. Hackers can do much more than just take your site offline; they can replace content, steal sensitive information, or display information you wouldn’t want associated with your brand.

Keeping your website secure is essential for protecting your business and your customers.

WHAT’S TYPICALLY COVERED IN A MAINTENANCE PLAN FOR WEBSITES?

A maintenance plan for a website is a cost-effective way to mitigate issues before they escalate. Rather than reacting to major (and often expensive) issues as they arise, regular maintenance helps catch small issues early, saving you time, stress, and money in the long run.

Website maintenance services are designed to keep your site running smoothly and securely. They act as a digital safety net, routinely checking for updates, applying them efficiently, and flagging potential problems before they impact performance.

Whether you’re launching a brand-new website or looking to bring an existing one up to date, your web development agency can help put the right maintenance plan in place.

Most plans typically include software and plugin updates, site backups, uptime monitoring, security checks, and basic troubleshooting to keep everything running as it should. This includes important updates like new WordPress releases and plugin upgrades that address bugs and security issues.

They also monitor your website’s performance to help prevent downtime. One common cause of issues is when a site exceeds its allocated resources, whether due to increased traffic, larger media files, or gradual growth over time. Ongoing maintenance helps manage these demands, ensuring your site remains stable, responsive, and secure.

OPTIMISING CONTENT FOR USER INTENT

It’s no longer enough to stuff a page with keywords. Google now focuses on pushing content that answers intent-driven queries to the top of the search page. This means your content should clearly answer real user questions.

Start by structuring your content clearly. For example, if someone searches for “How to start a small business in the UK,” your blog should include a step-by-step guide tailored to UK regulations and resources, not just generic advice. The clearer and more structured your information is, the higher the chances of it being cited in AI-driven search results.

AI also prioritises trustworthy, well-researched sources. Ensuring your content is informative, well-cited, and backed by credible references can increase the likelihood of being featured in AI-driven search results.

AI tools often pull direct answers from FAQs and conversational content. Expanding FAQs and targeting natural search queries can help improve your chances of being cited as a source helping to increase your visibility.

CREATING STRUCTURED, INFORMATIONAL CONTENT

Search engines increasingly rely on AI to evaluate and rank content. Structured, informative pages are not just easier for these tools to understand, they’re more likely to be recognised as trustworthy sources.

By clearly organising your content and backing it up with reliable references, you naturally increase your chances of being surfaced in AI-generated results. Internal links also play a key role here. They guide both users and search engines through your site, reinforcing your expertise across key topics.

For instance, linking to related service pages, like our web development agency or search engine optimisation agency, helps paint a clearer picture of your wider offering, while also improving the overall user journey.

KEEP YOUR WEBSITE SECURE WITH A WEBSITE CARE PLAN FROM EDGE CREATIVE

Don’t wait for disaster to strike. A proactive maintenance plan for your website is the smartest way to stay ahead of security risks and performance issues.

Our expert team has years of experience in website design and development, so you can rest easy knowing your online presence is in safe hands. Find out more about how to keep a website secure with a tailored website maintenance plan. Call us on 0121 355 8092 or email info@edge-creative.com to get started

For support with building your website on a budget, there are a range of essential web features to consider:

• SEO and PPC
• Using plugins
• Call to actions
• Contact information
• Web care plans
• Payment plans
• Website design

Whether you’re a startup or an established company, a website serves as the cornerstone of your online identity and a strong online presence is crucial for businesses of all sizes.

However, building a website doesn’t always have to come at a huge cost. By focusing on essential features and leveraging cost-effective strategies, you can create a professional and impactful website without exceeding your budget. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore key elements to consider when building a website on a budget.

ENSURE YOUR WEBSITE IS FOUND WITH SEO & PPC

Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) plays a vital role in driving organic traffic to your website. By optimising your site’s content and structure, you can improve its visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs) and attract potential customers. 

It is important to focus on relevant keywords related to your business, industry, and location to enhance your website’s discoverability. Additionally, consider incorporating local SEO strategies, such as including location-based keywords like “Website Design Sutton Coldfield,” to target audiences in specific geographic areas.

SEO is essential for long-term growth and as a result, it can take some time to see significant results. This is one of the reasons it is often complemented by Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising.

With PPC campaigns you can target specific keywords and demographics, driving targeted traffic to your website whilst your SEO strategy takes effect.

OPTIMISING YOUR WEBSITE WITH PLUGINS

Plugins are invaluable tools for enhancing the functionality and performance of your website.

Whether you’re using a content management system (CMS) like WordPress or building a custom website, plugins can streamline various tasks and improve the user experience. 

From optimising load speed to reducing memory usage, plugins play a crucial role in ensuring your website runs smoothly and efficiently, improving the user experience for your own customers or clients. 

Look for plugins that address common optimisation issues, such as caching, image compression, and code minification, to help improve performance. These are very cost-effective, as they aren’t a costly investment but will have a huge impact on your website’s performance.

DRIVE CONVERSIONS WITH ENGAGING CALLS TO ACTION

At the heart of every successful website are compelling calls to action (CTAs) that prompt visitors to take specific actions. Whether it’s making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or requesting more information, effective CTAs guide users through the conversion funnel and turn visitors into customers.

Use persuasive language, vibrant colours, and strategic placement to draw attention and drive conversions. The easier you make it for users to act, the more likely they are to do it.

CONTACT INFORMATION AND SOCIAL MEDIA ICONS

Easily accessible contact information is essential for building trust and facilitating communication with your audience. Include your business’s phone number, email address, and physical address prominently on your website to make it easy for visitors to get in touch. 

Additionally, integrate social media icons that link to your profiles on popular platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. Through this, you can expand your reach, engage with your audience, and drive traffic back to your website.

To minimise costs, consider linking your contact information directly to your preferred communication instead of implementing a contact form. This approach ensures that users can reach you quickly and efficiently without the need for additional plugins or custom development.

SUPPORTING YOUR WEBSITE WITH A WEB CARE PLAN

Maintaining your website’s security and functionality is crucial for long-term success. 

A web care plan provides ongoing support and maintenance services to keep your website running smoothly and securely.

From regular backups and software updates to malware scanning and uptime monitoring, a comprehensive web care plan safeguards your investment and minimises the risk of downtime or security breaches. 

They are a very cost-effective way to look after your website as it prevents the small fixes from becoming costly issues over time. Investing in a web care plan means you can protect against potential threats and ensure your website is performing at its peak, providing a seamless user experience for your visitors.

LOOK FOR AN AGENCY OFFERING A PAYMENT PLAN

When selecting a web design agency or developer, ask about payment options and flexibility. A lot of agencies offer payment plans or instalment options to help you spread out the cost of your website project over time and allocate your budget more effectively. 

There is also the potential to build an initial one-page simple CMS website that can later be updated and added to over time as your organisation grows or your budget increases. By doing this the initial cost of the site will be far less than a website with multiple pages and functionalities.

It’s always best to discuss any budget constraints and project requirements with the agency you are looking to work with because they may be able to suggest an alternative solution that better meets your requirements without sacrificing quality. 

THINKING ABOUT THE BIGGER PICTURE IN TERMS OF COSTS

It’s great that you are getting yourself a new website, but have you considered how you are going to cover the costs of the next steps? 

You need to drive traffic to your website, maintain it on an ongoing basis and add or refresh the content to keep your audience engaged. If you are looking to save your budget, then why not undertake some training and look after this yourself? 

For example, CMS training will help you learn how to edit pages and content on your website, whilst Analytics training can help you to understand how it is performing, so you know where best to allocate your budget in the future.

Did you know we also offer training in these areas through our Digital Marketing Masterclasses? 

HOW OUR WEBSITE DESIGN EXPERTS CAN HELP

As a leading website design agency in Sutton Coldfield, we are the experts in custom website development. We have significant experience building bespoke websites for organisations of all shapes and sizes from a variety of industries.

Our work focuses on your functionality requirements through cost-effective website design within your budget, whilst incorporating mobile-friendly website design.

We also support with the ongoing maintenance of websites through our Web Care Plans.

If you are looking for a new website, get in touch today to discuss your requirements in more detail. Call us on 0121 355 8092 or email info@edge-creative.com.