Website management refers to maintaining, updating and supervising the different aspects of a website, resulting in smooth operations, high functionality and a user friendly experience. This process can include technical, administrative or content modifications and helps keep a website running smoothly and effectively for both the business and the user.
Unlike a one off build, website management is ongoing. A site that isn't actively looked after tends to slow down, fall behind on security patches and lose ground in search results as competitors publish fresher, more relevant content.
Key takeaways
- Website management covers the ongoing design, technical, SEO, content and analytics work that keeps a site running smoothly
- Skipping it leads to slower sites, security risks and falling search visibility over time
What is included in website management?
Keeping a website running optimally can mean different things to different businesses depending on their goals and targets. However, there are a number of critical components involved in the web management process.
Web design
Website managers often handle the design and layout of the website, working with designers to make the site visually appealing and add features such as consistent branding across pages.
Technical maintenance and security
This covers monitoring the website's performance and implementing necessary updates which improve usability and speed. It also includes patching plugins and platforms, monitoring uptime and taking regular backups so a site can be restored quickly if something goes wrong.
SEO
Web managers often take responsibility for optimising website structure, content and metadata in order to improve SEO. This includes tasks such as keyword research, technical audits and driving organic traffic.
Content creation and updates
This includes tasks such as adding, editing and removing content such as website copy, imagery and video to keep the website engaging, relevant and up to date.
Analytics and reporting
Monitoring changes and updates is crucial to improving a marketing strategy and the success of a website. By using analytics and data, website managers can track user behaviour and prioritise the right tasks.
The importance of website management
Website management offers a number of benefits to both a business and its users, beyond the obvious value of having a fully functioning website.
- Faster, more reliable performance: Regular monitoring catches slow loading pages and broken elements before they affect visitors
- Stronger security: Patched software and regular backups reduce the risk of a site being compromised
- Better search visibility: Search engines favour sites that are updated regularly with relevant, well structured content
- Higher conversion rates: A well maintained site with no broken journeys keeps users moving towards enquiries or purchases
- Consistent brand experience: Regular reviews mean design, tone and messaging stay aligned as a business evolves
- Lower long term cost: Catching small issues early is cheaper than fixing major technical problems or a security breach after the fact
How to implement website management
Improving website management doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. Here are the key things to consider when putting it in place.
Choosing a content management system
One of the first steps is finding an appropriate CMS that meets your business needs and offers the features required. A good CMS allows you to refine the customer journey, produce high quality content and plan and launch new website activity for marketing campaigns.
For more on this, read our blog on what is a content management system.
Identifying key problems
Most websites will be well designed and optimised in some areas while lacking in others, whether that's technical quality or content. When first approaching website management, prioritisation is key. Consider what the main concerns are: are processes taking too long, what does the analytics data show, and where are visitors dropping off. Identifying these areas lets you prioritise work efficiently.
Considering business growth
The future of the business should always be front of mind, particularly when it comes to web management and digital systems. Invest in tools and technology that are scalable and adaptable, so they continue to serve the business for years to come.
Creating a content schedule
A content schedule underlines the major goals and objectives, keeps marketing teams aligned and creates an organised approach to website management. This should be built around targets, keywords and audience research.
DIY vs agency managed website management
Some businesses manage their site in house, while others bring in an agency. In house management can work well for smaller sites with a team member who has the time and technical confidence to handle updates. It gives more direct control but can fall behind if that person is stretched across other priorities.
Agency managed website management tends to suit growing or larger sites, where security, SEO and ongoing development need dedicated attention. It typically costs more than a DIY approach but reduces the risk of issues being missed and frees up internal time.
Website management FAQs
Still need help understanding website management? If you don't see your query below, please get in touch for some help!
What do you mean by website management?
Website management is the ongoing process of maintaining, updating and improving a website across its design, technical performance, content and SEO, so it continues to function well and meet business goals after launch.
Can I hire someone to manage my website?
Yes. Many businesses use a freelancer or agency to handle website management on an ongoing, typically monthly, basis, covering everything from technical maintenance to content updates.
What is needed to manage a website?
At a minimum, you need access to the site's CMS, a clear view of its performance through analytics and a process for handling regular updates, backups and security patches.
Website management by Imaginaire
Whether we built your website or you had it built elsewhere, we offer simple website management packages that support your business as it grows.
From simple maintenance and protection from cyber threats to tweaks and fixes on an existing website, our website management packages are ideal. Our support and maintenance plans mean you can relax in the knowledge that a team of experts are looking after your website, while still having the ability to build new features and make changes quickly, in an organised way.
Get in touch with our team to discuss your plans or request a free quote.
