If you run a website, chances are you often wonder whether it is the right time to do a total redesign of the layout of your website. Here are some points to consider:

Are you thinking of a redesign just for the sake of it?

If you answered yes to that question, it is not yet the right time to do a redesign. Remember, a design serves a specific purpose. If you are not sure whether to do an overhaul of your site, keep in mind that your current design might have a specific purpose that you might not know about. You will lose that function if you do a redesign.

Is it as old as the hills?

On the other hand, if your website has had the same website design since 2010, perhaps it is high time to do a redesign. The last thing you would ever want to happen to your site is for visitors to leave your site without taking a look at your content just because the design is old fashioned. If this is the case, here are some points to ponder before doing a redesign.

What about it’s special character?

Redesigning your website is like undergoing plastic surgery. Your website loses its current identity (for better or worse) and your regular visitors might not recognise the new design at first glance. You risk losing them just because they thought they landed on the wrong page. Thus, it is very important that you retain a characteristic feature from your old layout. Perhaps it is the logo of your site; perhaps it is the same text style that you use for the title for your site.

Why not ask?

To play it safe, introduce a poll to your audience and let your visitors do the talking. If they think it is necessary for the website to have a fresh look, give it to them!