Good web development is one of the most important assets a small business can have. The question that’s rising is what exactly makes a business website good. Of course, it depends on what type of industry you are in. But there are certain common elements to most business sites which should be implemented regardless of the type of business, in order to acheive success on the web. To ensure that your business website is professional, credible, and relevant, be sure it follows these basic principles during the development stages. 

The most important thing is to stand out from the crowd. Make sure your web design is unique and doesn't look like everyone else's, and don't rely on templates. They are almost always a bad idea for business sites, since they don't deliver anything compelling or unique to the users. Be intentional about the message that you are sending to your visitors during the process of web development. Your site must be an appropriate reflection of your business.

The consistent, user-friendly navigation will attract visitors and make them come back. Make sure the navigation system appears on every page so users can easily find their way around the site. Try to keep information only two or three clicks deep, and use drop-down menus to organize information and keep things simple.

The text content of the web site is extremely important too. First and foremost, great content gives visitors a reason to come to your site. It provides them with something of value, and can make them recommend your site to friends and colleagues. Don't waste your readers' time with boring, irrelevant content that is too company-centric. Readers don't really care about your business, they care about how your business can help them solve their problems. Great content is the most important part of a business web site.

On the web site you need to provide complete contact information. Everyone will agree that it is very frustrating when you are not able to find out where a business is located or how to contact someone in the company. Make sure you have all contact information on your web site, including a physical address, and provide users with multiple ways to contact you (phone, email, etc.). This reassures visitors that your company is real and gives your business additional credibility.

The purpose of having a web site is ultimately to get visitors to do something, whether it's to buy something, contact you, join a mailing list, or remember your company the next time they need products or services. Whatever it is that you want your visitors to do, you should always present a clear, strong call to action and make it easy for them to actually take that action. Be specific and direct. Even something as simple as "Buy Now" invites action because it is so direct.

It is a good strategy to give users something of value. They need a reason to follow your call to action and come back to your site again. Offer them a coupon, a tip sheet, free advice or information, or something entertaining like a crossword puzzle. This can also help build credibility with your audience and set your business apart from your competitors, too.