blog 1. The Launch
After over 20 years since establishing my own architecture practice our evolution continues! We are pleased to announce the launch of our new website. It is a bit of a departure from the minimalist format that we had for the past 10 years or so. The website, so I am told, is no longer simply our portfolio on display but a necessary marketing engine optimized for performance, strategic influence with potential clients and the lead generation tool that will see significant increases in our business. According to the webmaster, we should be on standby to answer calls, return email inquiries and close contracts.
I have to say, I remain a bit skeptical.
Our business has grown as a result of our reputation and good old word of mouth referrals - our most reliable marketing tools. Site signage on our projects during construction is another proven eye catcher. We regularly occupy space in publications such as West of the City, Our Homes and coming soon, Neighbours of Old Oakville. I think most people enjoy casually surfing through our portfolio photos when they visit our website coming back as they see fit to explore more. Our website has provided our fair share of client introductions but “Web Science” (my term) is at the core of the new site.
The new and “improved” website still has our portfolio pages - a work in progress to add all the images we want our viewers to experience. But it also has easier buttons and click points to get in touch with us. It will have links to free guides to our services. Our popular Student Design Competition will have it’s own tab so students and parents can figure out what it is all about. The site is mobile device friendly which is an absolute requirement- apparently a ridiculous number of us use our smart phones to find architects. And, those interested can sign up for our newsletter to receive blogs that our staff are committed to posting regularily.
I see the value in making the most of the website to introduce our firm to more clients. It was hard to give up on the simplicity of the previous site in favour of the marketing juggernaut. And I still believe our traditional marketing strategies will be the most effective.
We hope in the coming year to refresh our offices a bit, upgrade some technology and offer more services to our clients. That way we will be prepared for the onslaught of new work the new website will bring! We’ll give it 6 months to gauge the reaction of visitors. Hope you enjoy the view and your feedback is welcome.
For any enquiries and feedback, please write to us at info@jwarchitect.com or call us at (905) 842-2332.
John Willmott Owner/Architect