I have created this post because I need some questions answered by Contractors. I am actually a web designer, but many of my friends and family are builders. They ask me for web sites and I noticed they all ask for the same things (i.e. Home Page, About Us, Services, Contact, Photo Gallery).
My question is: Do Contractors really need web sites?
The reason I'm asking is because I am in the process of creating a web tool to make it as easy to create a web page as it is to write an email. This way it will be a lot cheaper and easier to have a web site and manage it.
I am hoping people will be willing to give me some feedback on this idea and take my survey. The survey is 10 quick questions, but I welcome more of your thoughts! =)
I realize that your post is a few months old, but I thought I throw my thoughts in anyway.
In today's business climate, clients are looking for a lot more interactivity and ease-of-contact than in years past.
Many people are doing extensive internet research prior to interviewing prospective builders. If they are able to learn a little (or a lot) about the history, philosophy and specialties of a company at their leisure, they are more likely to call for an appointment. Especially if the website includes testimonials from satisfied customers, and photos of completed projects. Before and after in the case of remodels.
At bare minimun, I think builders should have a domain name for email correspondence.
I'll take a look at your survey as well.
Posts: 10 | Location: Delaware | Registered: 25 April 2007
With regard to your question....I would say that in this day and age it is vital to have a website. My business is a very intricate and detail oriented one. Every timber frame we produce is custom designed by either us or an architect. When a client is looking at dropping the kind of money that most clients spend for a custom designed and built home, they want to do their homework and check the companies out as thoroughly as possible. We have a full website with a services/products listing and explanation, gallery of residential and commercial, and references. There are also sections through which the clients can meet our "family" (including the shop kitties) and see the articles that were written by us and about us. There are other sections as well, but these are the most traveled pages. By the time the prospective client is through, they have a good feel for what type of company we are. Now, some may say that our page is overkill....some love it. It really depends on the client. I hope this helps.
Posts: 12 | Location: Lititz, PA | Registered: 26 December 2006
Besides advertising our company (as per Splintergirl), we set up web pages for each of our projects, so our clients can view pictures, keep up to date with the schedule, etc. Many of our clients are out of town and we believe this a valuable service to them. I believe there is tremendous potential here for the future. Good luck!
