I have a favorite sweatshirt.

It’s faded. The sleeves are a little stretched out. If you held it up next to a brand-new one, you’d probably tell me it’s time for a replacement.

But you would be very very wrong.

It’s comfortable. It still does exactly what I need it to do. Plus, it has a sentimental smudge on the sleeve. I’m keeping it.

Websites are a lot like that.

One common question I get asked is, “How often should I redesign my website?“

People are usually hoping for a number. Three years. Five years. Seven, if they’re lucky. But websites don’t come with expiration dates.

The better question is this:

Is your website still doing its job?

Maybe your business has grown since your website launched. You’ve refined your services, raised your prices, or discovered that your favorite clients look a little different than the ones you started with.

If your website still speaks to the business you had five years ago, it might be time for a redesign.

Sometimes the signs are more obvious.

Maybe people have trouble finding your contact information. Maybe you’re constantly answering questions that should be explained on your website. Maybe you cringe a little every time someone says, “I found you online.”

Those are worth paying attention to.

On the other hand, if your website is bringing in the right clients, clearly explaining what you do, and still feels like an honest reflection of your business, don’t redesign it just because someone on the internet says you should.

I’ve worked on brand-new websites that needed a complete rethink because they were built without much strategy.

I’ve also seen older websites that continued to serve their owners remarkably well because they were built on a solid foundation.

Age isn’t really the issue. Alignment is.

Your website should grow alongside your business. Sometimes that means a complete redesign. Other times, it’s as simple as updating your messaging, adding a new service page, or reorganizing your navigation.

The goal isn’t to have the newest website. It’s to have one that works to meet your business goals.

If you’re not sure whether your website meets your business goals or not, I’d like to offer you a complimentary Website Audit. Sign up, sit back, and lets talk about how we can make your website into your primary online marketing piece.