Is HTTPS Worth Having?

It’s no secret that website security is more important now than ever before. With the number of cyber security attacks and hacking attempts on the rise, it is vital to make sure your business’ website is safeguarded against potential threats. As a small, online-based business ourselves, we know the importance of keeping your customers’ personal information secure and ensuring your website is always available and online. Customers also want to know that your business takes protecting their information seriously; if you don’t ensure this, it can have a negative impact on your business. One of the key ways to make sure that your website is secure is to make the switch to HTTPS (if you haven’t already).

We all know that website security is important, but what if we told you that HTTPS also directly impacts your small business in many other ways too?

So, what is HTTPS?

HTTPS stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure. Simply put, HTTPS is the secure version of HTTP. HTTPS is encrypted to increase security while seamlessly maintaining your data transferring process. This is especially important when sensitive information is being transmitted, such as banking information or other confidential data. In addition to website security, there are number of other reasons that HTTPS is important for your business’ website.

Here are three reasons why the switch to HTTPS is worth doing for your business, in addition to the obvious benefit of increased security: 

1. SEO

HTTPS is an important component of your Search Engine Optimization (SEO), as it is one of the major ranking factors considered by search engines. For example, Google recently implemented a change that marks every website without HTTPS as insecure and will receive a SEO penalty, which makes it harder for new customers to find your website. In addition to this, Google marks your website as “not secure” in the browser, which is an immediate red flag for both potential customers and hackers alike. This can negatively impact your ratings and the overall credibility of your business if you fail to update your website to HTTPS.

If you’re not familiar with the importance of SEO, check out our blog “SEO 101” and also look into a Vancouver SEO company, like Trilogy Solutions, for help increasing your SEO rank.

2. Website Functionality

Another key reason that HTTPS is important, is that most websites are starting to make the switch to the more secure option. If your website is not updated to HTTPS and is interacting with another website that is more secure, there can be embedded code or tools that will not work when navigating between the two. Ensuring that your website is running smoothly is important for customer experience and satisfaction, and can be optimized by a Vancouver web design company, like us.

3. Business Credibility

Lastly, if you are not using the most secure type of website, this can affect your company’s credibility and brand reputation. If your customers are accessing your website through Google Chrome or another similar browser and they constantly see the “Not Secure” message, this does not instill confidence in your website or your company as a whole. Consumers will be much more likely to move on to a more secure website, or may question the value your business places on quality and security. This has a direct impact on your company, as people will be more likely to use your competitor’s website and service instead if it appears more credible and safer.

The reputation of your company as a small business is crucial to maintain. Securing your website data is equally as important because the reality is, if your customers experience issues with your website it can cost you your reputation. Your business’ credibility, website functionality, and SEO have such a huge impact on your company, so making the switch to HTTPS should be your next step in building your brand and ensuring that your site remains secure and intact at all times.

If website security and website design are not your strong suit, this is a great task to delegate to a professional. Reach out to a company that specializes in website hosting Vancouver, like Trilogy Solutions, to make sure your website is created in a way that is functional and secure.

10 Reasons Your Business Needs a Website

Now more than ever people are going online for all their needs for everything from doing their every day grocery shopping to searching for the latest beauty trends. So, what does this mean for the average local business? It means your online presence needs to be strong enough to keep up with the ever-growing, competitive market that is the world wide web. And no, this doesn’t just mean a simple Facebook page and basic DIY website. Instead, you need a well-thought-out marketing plan that includes online, social and mobile components. 

Why, you might ask? Because your potential customers are always searching and it’s your website you want them to land on, not your competitor’s. So, if you are a local businessperson, a company website is one of the most essential marketing strategies you can use – and here’s why. 

1. Your business is open 24/7

While your business may have set operating hours, your website certainly doesn’t. Having a website allows your business to be open around the clock for access to your products and information at any time of the day. Although you may not be available in-person to interact with people looking to do business with you, your website can serve as a point of contact for potential customers on their schedule – which is a sure-fire way to increase your business.

2. Reach a bigger audience

Having a website allows you to reach so many more people than a traditional brick and mortar storefront. With a website your business is visible to people all over the world, not just those in your local community. Millions of people worldwide are out there, waiting to see what your business has to offer, and searching for businesses exactly like yours. Creating a website gives your global customers access to your business from the comfort of their home, even when they are thousands of miles away.

3. Gives your business credibility

A user-friendly, professional looking website can instantly make your business appear credible and sound, something that consumers are always looking for. The old saying, “never judge a book by its cover” doesn’t apply here – first impressions are key to creating a trustworthy and credible website (and are key to building your business and increasing overall sales).

4. Websites are affordable

Building a website isn’t as expensive as it once was. With a variety of platforms to choose from, you can create a simple website for as little as $70/year. And in comparison, to traditional print advertisements, it’s definitely more cost-effective. If you are looking for a more robust option, a Vancouver web design company (like us!) can build customized websites to meet your business’ unique needs.

5. Convenient for the consumer

When you have a website, people can reach your business at a time that is convenient for them – not just when you’re open and available. This makes it more convenient for the consumer, allowing them to look at your products and information on their own time.

6. Expand your business

Launching a website can help expand your business and increase your daily sales. Why? Because your name and product/service are now out there for all to see. A simple Google search can bring up your site, leading potential customers to your business thus increasing your chances of potential sales.

7. Build customer rapport

Having a website also allows you to build customer rapport by providing special offers, loyalty programs and newsletters – all of which let the customer know you appreciate their business.

8. Grow your customer base

A website can help you communicate with your customer base and allow you to build a list of consumer contacts which, let’s face it, is the ultimate marketing tool for any business.

9. Use targeted marketing strategies

A website is a great place to hone your brand – using a specific design style, vocabulary and imagery that are key to your business. By creating a website, you’re ultimately painting a picture of what your business is all about and shaping the narrative of your company. A company blog helps you to get the message, mission and personality of your business in front of a target audience faster than print ads or mailed out brochures.

10. Keep your business competitive

If you want to keep up with your competitors, you need to have a website. If you want to stay relevant and competitive in your industry, it’s important that your business has an active online footprint. The majority of people research a business or service online before making a purchase or using their service. If you don’t have a website, you won’t be able to capture your share of this market.

Ultimately the question of whether or not to create a website is not a simple yes or no, but a question of when. If you want your business to thrive and grow in this digital era, then a website is a definite must. It’s truly one of the best investments you can make for the future of your business. To make the most of your website, use a web design Fraser Valley company like Trilogy Solutions to create a website for you so that you know you’re getting the most out of it as a tool for your business. A professional web design company will ensure your website is search engine optimized, aesthetically pleasing and user friendly. The bottom line: creating a website opens up so many doors for you and your business – it’s the one thing you can do today to help your business be as successful as it can be.