Web Design for Small Business Owners

We have noticed a big change in the questions and requests we get from small business owners. The emphasis has shifted from look and feel to solving practical business issues and online marketing.

The web site is now considered a key communications and marketing tool, even for the smallest of organizations. 

KEY CHANGE - almost all our requests are concerning web site upgrades, we are only getting new site requests from start-ups.

2 years ago:

1. "We need a really cool Flash Splash page"
2. "Can we have cascading drop down menus?"
3. "We need a links page to all our suppliers"
4. "Can i have a music playing for my visitors?" 

Now

1. "We need to get better search results"
2. "I need to be able to update my site without a programmer"
3. "I have a business process that i want to automate"
4. "We want to run a sponsored ad campaign" 
5. "Can we use Paypal to collect payment for donations or event registration" 
6. "Can we create a members section for our staff and directors?"
7. "Can i collect subscribers online and easily send them an email newsletter?"
8. "Can we create a microsite for our next marketing campaign?"

My  large customers made this change 5 years ago, my small customers are now beginning to make the same conversion.

The tools are more affordable now for smaller organizations.