With so many different tools available online for businesses to promote their products and services, it can be very easy to fall into the trap of thinking that a website is not absolutely essential these days.

Research even suggests that some organizations do indeed seem to think that way, with a study released a couple of years ago by Clutch finding that 46 per cent of small businesses in the US have not established a site.

However, such findings have been called into question by a recent white paper released by the agency Kayo, which has explained how a site with effective web design remains a vital tool which can ultimately drive the growth of a business. It added that a well-managed site can even become a “powerful business development manager” as part of a wider strategy.

With all of this in mind, it is fair to say that web design as a skill is arguably more important than ever before, as the right advice could make all of the difference as firms look to gain value out of their sites. However, while that may be the case, are web design businesses themselves ready and equipped to make the most of opportunities that arise?

Going to the next level

Getting your web design venture off the ground can feel like a huge moment. You’ve landed a few clients, you're actively working on a handful of projects and everything is feeling pretty good. However, it is always important for small businesses in any industry to not rest on their laurels when it comes to the performance of the organization.

After all, work and clients can come and go and this may – of course – ultimately impact on your income and success. With this in mind, it is worth regularly giving some thought as to how you could grow or develop your offering or perhaps set targets to take your business to a whole new level.

But how do you go about doing that? There are a host of options you could consider, but here are just a few of the ideas we have on the issue.

1. Ensure the basics are in place

A great place to start is to look back at what you’ve done so far. Basically, review everything that you have in place for your venture and ensure that it all remains fit for purpose. One option might be to check out GoDaddy.com’s article on starting a web design business and see whether you have completed all of the steps that the site suggests. For example, did you check on any permits that you may need and does operating as a sole proprietor still work for you?

You should also review your business insurance and ensure it is fit for purpose. As Next Insurance outlines, a large claim related to problems with work or damage caused by a business could have major consequences for smaller firms.

2. Keep an ear to the ground

If you are worried about the prospect of your venture standing still, make sure it doesn’t! A great way to do this is to always be open to new opportunities and listen for any whispers of any projects that could well be in the pipeline.

In addition, make sure you know everything that is going on in the world of web design. The online world is shifting and evolving all of the time so be aware of new trends, technology or software that could change the game. You can get yourself in a strong position by not allowing anything to pass you by.

3. Learn some new skills

Another undoubtedly important way to stay at the top of your game is to ensure you are always learning on the job. Attending training courses and seminars could be a great way to network but also to learn new skills that could push your business to a whole new level.

For instance, if you’re only skilled in a couple of web design languages or specific design platforms, are there others that could prove useful and open you up to new work opportunities? Developing your expertise could be a massive step forward.

4. Embrace marketing

Another way to attract more work may be to use tools including social media and your own website to showcase your range of skills and abilities.

Such platforms will allow you to make something striking and truly demonstrate what you are capable of, while you can then ask friends both inside and outside the world of web design to share your creations.

Invaluable skills

Businesses may have so many tools available to them as they look to promote their work, but few have the impact of a well-designed website. A great eye for detail and technical skill in the world of web design is invaluable these days and we think the ideas above could prove useful as you look to take your venture to a new level of success.