Preparing Website Content: A Guide to Gathering Text and Visual Element
Quality content is the backbone of any effective website. At More Time Design & Automation, we often find that content preparation is where many website projects encounter delays. By understanding what content you'll need and preparing it early, you can ensure your website launches on time with messaging that truly resonates with your audience.
Why Website Content Matters
Your website may look stunning, but without compelling content, it won't achieve your business goals. Strong content:
Communicates your value proposition clearly
Helps visitors understand how you solve their problems
Builds trust and credibility with your audience
Drives conversions and leads
Improves your search engine visibility
Essential Text Content to Prepare
Homepage Messaging
Your homepage makes a critical first impression. Prepare:
Main Headline: A clear, compelling statement about what you do (5-10 words)
Subheading: Elaboration on your main headline (10-15 words)
Key Benefits: 3-5 core benefits your customers receive (1-2 sentences each)
Call to Action: What you want visitors to do next ("Schedule a Consultation," "Shop Now," etc.)
Supporting Copy: Brief descriptions of your services or products
Example Main Headline: "Custom Websites That Generate Real Business Results"
About/Company Information
Your About section builds trust and connection. Prepare:
Company origin story (when and why you started)
Mission and values
What makes your approach unique
Relevant company achievements or milestones
Why customers choose you over competitors
Keep this authentic and focused on how your story benefits customers.
Services or Product Descriptions
For each service or product, prepare:
Clear, benefit-focused name
Detailed description (200-300 words)
Key features and benefits
Pricing information (if applicable)
Process or what customers can expect
FAQs specific to each service/product
Pro Tip: Focus on benefits, not just features. Instead of "24/7 customer support" (feature), emphasize "Never worry about technical issues with round-the-clock expert assistance" (benefit).
Team Bios (If Applicable)
For key team members, prepare:
Professional headshot
Name and position
Brief professional background (2-3 sentences)
Relevant credentials or certifications
Personal touch that humanizes them
Contact information (if appropriate)
Contact Information
Gather all relevant contact details:
Business address(es)
Phone number(s)
Email address(es)
Hours of operation
Social media profiles
Preferred contact method
Essential Visual Content to Prepare
Professional Photography
Quality images dramatically improve website engagement. Gather:
Business location photos (exterior and interior)
Team photos (group and individual)
Product images (multiple angles, in-use scenarios)
Action shots showing your services being performed
Customer interaction photos
Image Requirements:
High resolution (at least 1500px wide)
Well-lit, professionally shot if possible
Consistent style throughout
Natural, not overly posed
Videos
Video content significantly increases engagement. Consider preparing:
Company overview/introduction
Product demonstrations
Customer testimonials
Process explanations
Virtual tours
Keep videos under 2 minutes for maximum impact, and ensure they include captions or transcripts for accessibility.
Icons and Illustrations
Custom graphics can enhance understanding and visual appeal:
Process diagrams
Infographics for statistics or comparisons
Custom icons for service categories
Diagrams explaining complex concepts
Illustrations that reinforce your brand style
Content Creation Options
You have several options for developing your website content:
DIY Approach: Write and gather all content yourself
Pros: Cost-effective, maintains your authentic voice
Cons: Time-consuming, may lack professional polish
Professional Content Creation: Have our team create content
Pros: Professional quality, strategic approach, saves time
Cons: Additional cost ($XX-XXX depending on scope)
Hybrid Approach: Provide rough drafts we refine
Pros: Balance of authenticity and professionalism
Cons: Still requires significant input from you
Content Preparation Timeline
For a smooth website project, aim to have content ready according to this timeline:
Initial Planning Phase: Homepage messaging, basic company information
Design Phase: Key imagery that influences design decisions
Development Phase: Complete service/product descriptions, team bios
Pre-Launch: Any final content adjustments or updates
Content Organization Tips
When submitting content to our team:
Create a dedicated folder structure for different content types
Name files clearly (e.g., "homepage-hero-image.jpg" not "IMG12345.jpg")
Provide text in editable format (Word, Google Docs)
Note any placeholder content that needs updating later
Include image source credits where needed
Next Steps: Content Preparation Checklist
Before our next meeting, please:
Draft your homepage headline and key messages
Outline your services/products with key benefits
Gather existing photos or schedule a photoshoot
Decide if you need professional content writing assistance
Compile contact information and social media links
Need help determining what content you need or want professional content creation assistance? Contact us and we'll guide you through the process.
More Time Design & Automation specializes in creating beautiful, functional websites with content that converts visitors into customers.
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