Maintenance Really Matters: Why and How to Keep Your Self-Storage Website Fresh and Functional

In today's digital age, a website is a crucial marketing tool for every self-storage business. It serves as the online face of the company and provides customers with valuable information about your products, services, culture and values. However, simply having a website isn’t enough. To ensure it remains effective, regular maintenance is necessary. Below is what to look for when reviewing your site and how to make impactful changes that keep it fresh and functional.

Why You Need to Do It

Website maintenance is essential for several reasons. First, it helps ensure your site is up to date with the latest design trends and technologies. Outdated design can make your self-storage website look unprofessional and untrustworthy, which can deter potential customers. Additionally, it might not be compatible with modern web browsers, which can result in slow load times and a poor user experience.

Second, it can help improve your search engine optimization (SEO). Search engines like Google use complex algorithms to determine which websites appear at the top of search engine results pages (SERPs). These consider a variety of factors, including the quality of content, load speed and overall user experience. By regularly updating your site with high-quality content as well as optimizing images and videos and ensuring it’s fast and responsive, you can improve your SEO performance and increase your chances of appearing at the top of SERPs.

Finally, regular maintenance can prevent security breaches. Hackers and cybercriminals are constantly looking for vulnerabilities to exploit. If your website isn’t properly cared for, it may be more susceptible to stolen data, damaged reputation and financial loss. By regularly updating your software, plugins and security features, you reduce the risk of cyberattacks and keep your site secure.

How to Do It

How often you review and update your self-storage website will depend on how complex it is, how much traffic it receives, and the level of functionality required. However, it’s generally recommended to perform an evaluation at least once per quarter. This’ll give you enough time to make necessary changes and ensure the site remains current and functional. Check for the following:

In addition to the above maintenance, consider these additional things to maximize website effectiveness:

It's also essential to occasionally make changes that improve usability. For instance, you may need to add new web pages, update your design or improve speed. For these modifications, you need some basic understanding of web development. You can use builders like Squarespace, Wix or WordPress without coding knowledge; however, if you want to make significant alterations, you may need to hire a web developer.

When to Get Help

If you aren’t confident in your website-maintenance abilities or you simply don't have the time to manage your site, you may want to hire a professional. But if you go this route, it's essential to choose the right person for the job. Look for a web developer with experience in building websites that are similar to yours. Ask for references, view their portfolio and read reviews from other clients.

Once you've hired a partner, work with them to realize your vision. Communication is key. Clearly explain your goals, timeline and budget. Provide them with all the information they’ll need, such as your login details, server and any other details they need to do the job.

To create and sustain a robust online presence for your self-storage business, website maintenance is crucial. Keep your site current to improve its functionality and usability. If necessary, choose the right web developer for help. With these tips, you’ll have a superior website that attracts customers and helps you achieve your business goals.

Brandon Mustafaraj is a sales executive for G3Works, which helps companies with individual and team development. An expert in information technology and website maintenance, he also co-founded Mental Makeover, a nonprofit that provides resources and education about mental health to young people. To reach him, email [email protected].