Tuesday, 27, May 2008 10:53
The internet can prove a "double-edged sword" for many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), an expert has claimed.
Richard Hudson, director of website design agency Vanilla Storm, made his comments to the Manchester Evening News as his organisation launches an informal "clinic" which will allow smaller organisations to seek advice.
He explained that the firm will offer information on website creation, blogging and search engine optimisation, as well as a number of other issues.
There is a danger that a website can actually harm a business if it is not executed correctly, Mr Hudson continued.
"A website is the company's window to the world but a second-rate or overly-complex site can put potential clients off before the initial contact is made," he added.
The government's resource for small firms Business Link notes that maintaining a website is "crucial" and that the pages should be regularly updated.
It comments that this is vital when promoting a good impression and encouraging consumers to visit the website repeatedly.