Many businesses that already have a website eventually start asking: does it make more sense to redesign the website or to have a new one built?
Rapid technological change and shifting user habits mean websites need to be updated at regular intervals. In some cases a redesign is enough, while in others building an entirely new site is the better solution.
In this article, we take a detailed look at the differences between redesigning a website and building a new one, and at which option suits which situation.
What Is a Website Redesign?
A website redesign means updating the existing website without replacing it entirely. This process usually involves modernising the design and making certain technical improvements.
- Updating the design
- Refreshing the content
- Performance improvements
- Mobile-friendliness adjustments
This is usually done while keeping the existing infrastructure.
What Is Building a New Website?
Building a new website means recreating the existing site completely from scratch. In this process, both the design and the infrastructure are built from the ground up.
- A new design is created
- A modern software infrastructure is set up
- New features can be added
- Stronger performance can be achieved
When Is a Website Redesign Enough?
In some cases, a redesign can be enough without replacing the existing website entirely.
1. If the Existing Infrastructure Is Up to Date
For websites with up-to-date technical infrastructure, a design refresh alone may be enough.
2. If Only Minor Visual Changes Are Needed
For small updates such as a new logo or colour scheme, a redesign can be enough.
3. If Performance Issues Are Minor
Minor performance issues can usually be solved through optimisation.
When Does Building a New Website Make More Sense?
In some cases, building an entirely new site is better than redesigning the existing one.
1. If the Website Is Very Old
Websites that have not been updated for many years are often technically inadequate.
2. If There Are Mobile-Friendliness Issues
Sites that are not mobile-friendly may need to be rebuilt completely.
3. If You Want to Add New Features
New features such as a booking system or custom modules may not be compatible with the existing infrastructure.
4. If Google Performance Is Very Poor
Sites built on outdated infrastructure can run into SEO problems.
Advantages of a Website Redesign
A redesign can offer certain advantages.
- Lower cost
- Shorter project duration
- Existing content is preserved
Advantages of Building a New Website
Building a new website can offer important advantages in the long run.
- A more modern design
- A stronger infrastructure
- Higher performance
- Better SEO compatibility
Which Is More Cost-Effective?
A website redesign is usually less expensive. In the long run, however, building an entirely new site may be more advantageous.
This decision should be based on the condition of the existing website.
How Long Does a Website Redesign Take?
A redesign usually takes less time than building a new site.
- Simple redesigns: 5 – 10 days
- Comprehensive redesigns: 10 – 20 days
How Long Does Building a New Website Take?
New website projects may require more time.
- Standard corporate site: 7 – 21 days
- Comprehensive projects: 21 – 45 days
Frequently Asked Questions
Is redesigning a website cheaper?
Usually yes, but in the long run building a new site may be more advantageous.
Is building a new site always necessary?
No. If the existing infrastructure is suitable, a redesign may be enough.
Does a website redesign improve performance?
Yes. A well-executed redesign can improve performance.
Conclusion: The Right Choice Depends on the Condition of Your Current Website
The right answer to whether you should redesign your website or build a new one depends on the condition of the existing website. In some cases a redesign is enough, while in others building an entirely new site is the better solution.
Decisions based on a proper analysis can help businesses achieve a stronger position in the digital world.