What types of websites are there?

Information websites

Informational websites are as a resource to communicate information. These sites are usually based around include long form content and provide in-depth information to their audience. 

Effective website navigation tools such as multi-level menus and search facilities are essential for information websites. It's easy for users to get lost when your site has hundreds (or thousands) of pages, so a strong structure is essential.

Information websites are widely used by local authorities, schools, colleges, and government departments. 

Lead generation websites

As the name suggests, lead generation websites focus on generating leads for a service or product.

These websites are used by companies providing services such as financial, legal, or design – anyone who wants to generate leads for their business.

Lead generation also works for businesses who provide a “made to order” product that doesn't have a fixed price. For example, bespoke kitchens, furniture, or large engineering / construction products. Because they can't sell these direct, a lead generation website is needed to generate enquiries. 

A lead from your website can come in many forms; a phone call, email, enquiry form, online chat, booking an appointment or requesting a quote. You can also capture data through email newsletter signups and downloads to generate leads.

Tracking conversions of your lead generation tools is essential to understand which methods work best on which pages. 

Ecommerce websites

In its simplest definition, ecommerce websites and online shops are sites that sell goods and services to customers online.

Ecommerce sites are used by small and medium sized business, national and international brands to huge online marketplaces such as Etsy or Amazon. Ecommerce sites are usually either business to business (B2B) or business to consumer (B2C).

Most businesses typically use an ecommerce platform such as Shopify or Woocommerce. These platforms are ideal for small businesses on a budget but are also used by big companies.

Ecommerce isn't limited to online shops though, it can apply to any online transactions. For example, you could use ecommerce to take subscription payments online, or set up your website to receive invoice payments.

Blog website

A personal or business blog should inform, entertain, educate, and engage your audience.

When regularly updated, a blog with relevant articles, videos, and images not only is a great read, but can boost your website traffic and send quality leads to your website. Search engines love fresh content and blogging is the perfect opportunity to target your audience while demonstrating your expertise and knowledge.

Blog posts are also great content for email marketing and social media, and the perfect backbone for a content marketing strategy.

A great example of a blog website is The Hoot. It’s a niche blog aimed at School Governors, with regular posts help to inform and support their audience.

Membership website

A membership website is a site that includes members-only content. They are often used by non-profit organisations, clubs, associations, and businesses to "gate" content that only members have access to.

This offers additional value to the members and encourages others to sign up or become a member to access information.

The Association of Average Adjusters is a membership organisation and a good example of a membership site. It allows members to register and renew their subscription online, and book onto events and examinations. The members-only areas provide information around latest industry news and regulations, with different levels of access depending on the membership type.

What else?

We've covered the main types of websites, however this list is just the start. The web is a powerful tool and can do so much, for example Gmail, Facebook, and your online banking portal are (among other things) websites.

Don't think your website is limited to a few pages of information, a contact form, and some awkward mugshots. It can do so much more.

If you'd like to find out more about what you can achieve with your website, you can ask us anything.