Introduction
Brand SA, a prominent advocate for South African business growth, conducted an online survey targeting with New Perspective design and 1,000 business owners nationwide. The goal was to uncover the driving factors behind businesses establishing an online presence. This comprehensive study asked 10 critical questions, revealing key trends and motivations. Here are the survey questions, top responses, and vital takeaways.
1. What Motivated You to Create a Business Website?
Top Responses:
- To stay competitive in the market (46%)
- To establish an online identity (30%)
- To showcase products/services (20%)
- Not sure, it seemed necessary (4%)
Key Takeaway:
A strong digital presence is no longer optional. Businesses recognize that having a website helps them stay competitive, build credibility, and attract customers in a tech-driven world.
2. How Does Your Website Enhance Business Credibility?
Top Responses:
- It makes my business look professional (55%)
- Builds trust with potential clients (32%)
- Minimal impact on credibility (13%)
Key Takeaway:
Websites are a digital handshake—the first impression of your brand. A professionally designed site fosters trust, credibility, and authority in your industry.
3. Has Your Website Helped You Acquire New Clients?
Top Responses:
- Yes, significantly (50%)
- Somewhat helpful (35%)
- Not much difference (15%)
Key Takeaway:
A well-optimized website can be your best salesperson, working around the clock to attract new leads and convert visitors into loyal clients.
4. Do You Use Your Website to Highlight Products or Services?
Top Responses:
- Yes, it’s my main showcase (54%)
- Yes, but social media also plays a role (31%)
- No, we don’t feature products online (15%)
Key Takeaway:
Think of your website as a digital storefront, open 24/7. It allows potential clients to explore your offerings anytime, anywhere, increasing opportunities for conversions.
5. Has Your Website Improved Customer Engagement?
Top Responses:
- Yes, via contact forms, chat, and FAQs (42%)
- Some improvement, but we rely on direct calls (38%)
- No noticeable change (20%)
Key Takeaway:
Websites streamline customer communication. By offering contact forms, live chat, and self-service options, businesses enhance engagement and improve customer satisfaction.
6. How Does Your Website Contribute to Brand Awareness?
Top Responses:
- It’s the cornerstone of my brand presence (48%)
- It complements my social media efforts (36%)
- Limited role in brand awareness (16%)
Key Takeaway:
A website acts as the heart of your brand’s online identity, providing consistent messaging and serving as the central hub for all marketing activities.
7. Has Your Website Contributed to Sales Growth?
Top Responses:
- Yes, we’ve seen significant growth (44%)
- Some impact on sales (39%)
- No major difference (17%)
Key Takeaway:
Websites are powerful sales tools. With the right design and marketing strategies, they drive revenue growth by converting online traffic into paying customers.
8. Do You Use Your Website for Marketing Campaigns?
Top Responses:
- Yes, it’s central to my marketing strategy (49%)
- Occasionally, depending on the campaign (28%)
- Rarely, I focus on other platforms (23%)
Key Takeaway:
Integrating your website with marketing efforts amplifies your reach. It acts as the foundation for SEO, content marketing, and paid campaigns, driving measurable results.
9. How Critical Is Your Website for Business Expansion?
Top Responses:
- Essential for growth (53%)
- Helpful but not critical (30%)
- Not essential (17%)
Key Takeaway:
Websites support business scalability. They help expand market reach, streamline operations, and open new revenue streams, enabling sustainable growth.
10. What Would Be the Impact If You Didn’t Have a Website?
Top Responses:
- We’d lose visibility and credibility (47%)
- Business would continue, but growth would slow (35%)
- No significant impact (18%)
Key Takeaway:
Without a website, businesses risk losing credibility and growth opportunities. In today’s digital-first world, an online presence is vital for staying relevant and competitive.
Conclusion
This survey by Brand SA underscores the critical role websites play in modern business success. From enhancing credibility and customer engagement to driving sales and supporting growth, a website is more than an online address—it’s a strategic asset. Businesses without a strong online presence risk being overshadowed in an increasingly digital marketplace.