A clever & effective website does more than make you look good in the digital world—it helps you run your business in a simple and stress-free way. Plus, it has the potential to become your best salesperson working 24/7.

But how long does it take to build a website? Unfortunately, there isn’t an easy answer because this process depends on several factors. 

Along with research, design, development, and testing, creating a strategic website needs time. 

So if you’re thinking about getting a new website for your business, here’s a few things you should know.

Let’s get started. 

1. Content is the most time-consuming part.

Your site won’t be a success without the right content.

Your customers need to feel understood when they visit. And that conversation starts when they read the words you write on your website.

Using unfamiliar wording or placing too much content on your website can frustrate your customer (instead of helping them feel like they’re in the right place). Effective content strategy includes blogging, copywriting, text organization, and clear visuals. 

If you have zero content, to begin with, growing your content strategy could add weeks to your website timeline (whether you DIY this or outsource it to a pro). 

2. Your business goals determine your website’s timeline.

The amount of time you need goes hand-in-hand with your business goals. Whether you’re selling products on your website, need subscribers to build your email list, or aim to generate local leads— these will affect how long it takes to build your website.

An e-commerce site, for example, will need product photos, links, and descriptions. But, a simple blog will only need a few basics, including an about section and contact page (unless you’re using your blog to generate passive income via paid ads). Generating local leads also requires an in-depth SEO strategy.

Questions to ask yourself:

  1. Which tools does my website need to run and market my business?
  2. What will be the purpose of my website? 
  3. How will my website help fulfill my business goals?

Brainstorming the answers to these 3 questions will help you figure out the amount of time you need to build a unique (and effective) website for you.

3. It typically takes 8-14 weeks.

The level of customization and the number of pages you need will also change how long it takes to build your website. 

For example, at Wilmington Design Co., we blend art and technology into 4 stages to produce a website that fits your brand like a glove. Here’s what our process looks like:

  1. Research and Discovery Phase
  2. Design Phase
  3. Development Phase
  4. Testing and Launch Phase

First, we listen closely. Who are you? What do your company goals look like? We also research your audience and potential customer base. 

Next, our designers use this information to plan your website’s branding, fonts, colors, and overall usability. 

As we program and develop your site, we ensure each page is SEO compliant. 

Lastly, we test your site to make sure it’s operating as expected. And after launching your site, we’re on-hand to help answer any questions you have.

Tired of losing clients because of your outdated, poor website?

We’re here to help. 

Wilmington Design Co. is a team of project and account managers here to keep your website project on track every step of the way.

From planning your website to launch, you’ll always stay in-the-know.

Click here to book a call with us so we can learn about your business goals and how a new website will help.