Visuals Are Most Effective Website Content for 23% of Small Businesses, Survey Finds

WASHINGTON, May 21, 2019 /PRNewswire/ -- More than one-fifth of small businesses (23%) say visuals were the most effective content on their websites in 2018, according to a new survey from portfolio website Visual Objects. Another 23% noted that company information was the most effective website content.

Visual Objects surveyed 529 small businesses in the United States to learn about the types of content they publish on their websites, the effectiveness of the content, and what they plan to publish in 2019.

In the report, experts recommend that small businesses invest in visual content assets to increase engagement with their brand. Visual content includes images, infographics, and graphic designs that often require small businesses to commit more time and resources.

More than Half of Small Businesses Will Publish Visual Content on Their Websites in 2019

Most small businesses (55%) plan to publish visuals on their websites in 2019, but the survey recommends small businesses also invest in emerging forms of content, such as podcasts and videos.

For example, Ashley Graham, owner of branding agency Brandesso, saw results by investing in a repurposable video series.

She described how they maximized the content of the project: "We have expanded into six full episodes while turning it into a paid content package for brands to receive the broadcasting and public relations aspect of the piece, as well as lifestyle photos and b-roll clips to use for their social media and marketing strategies," Graham said.

Almost Three-Quarters of Small Businesses Publish Content Monthly or More

The survey found that 74% of small businesses publish new content on their websites at least monthly, indicating they understand the importance of creating new content to engage users.

Businesses with smaller teams, however, find it harder to keep up with a demanding content schedule. Just 35% of small businesses with 50 employees or fewer are able to publish consistently.

"Most businesses that are successful at content marketing are not actually writing … 2-3 blog posts every week," said Kristine Neil, owner and creative director at web design firm Markon Brands.

To keep up with a rigorous content schedule, small businesses should create a bank of content to schedule as needed and rely on freelance writers if necessary.

"Planning ahead not only allows business owners to take the pressure off and no longer have to worry about coming up with something to write about each day, but they're also able to be more strategic and targeted in their content," Neil said.

One-Fifth of Small Businesses Say Improving Design Is Top Website Priority in 2019

One in five small businesses surveyed (20%) intend to improve their website design in 2019, and 19% say their top priority is to increase user engagement.

According to the survey, small businesses can achieve these two goals by investing in dynamic website content that will attract and retain website visitors. Only 10% of the small businesses surveyed, however, will prioritize building a content hub in 2019.

Read the full report here: https://visualobjects.com/web-design/small-business-website-content

About Visual Objects
Visual Objects is a portfolio website that showcases work from top creative firms from around the world. Use Visual Objects to visualize a firm's projects, which helps you find the right design partner for your business. You wouldn't want to make a hiring decision without seeing a company's quality of work – Visual Objects compiles this work on one easy-to-use site.

Contact
Kelsey McKeon
[email protected]
(202) 684-2125

SOURCE Visual Objects