Just as it regulates the products, the FSA regulates websites to make sure that the consumer is being treated fairly. They look to make sure that clear and concise information is given and to make sure the website is easy to navigate.
They will be reviewing a snapshot of finance websites in the near future and they say they will crack down on those who are not offering the necessary information. When they investigated in 2005 and 2006, while many websites were up to par around a ¼ of the 77 websites they did review did have failings.
Studies from marketing research firm Mintel and MORI show that with 22 million people now using the internet on a regular basis and around 40% looking for information before buying, an easy to navigate, content rich website should be considered essential. Around 18% of those consumers who go online do so to buy a product. Providing honest and accurate information should be considered essential during the planning stage of an independent financial adviser’s website design.
The website needs to include the key information on the financial products that the firm is selling or promoting. Without this, the consumer cannot make an informed decision regarding the suitability. You should also give some thought as other tools and information you need to insert. This can be by way of articles, hints, tips and a FAQs page.
Just as important as putting the information online is keeping it up-to-date. An outdated website is frowned upon by the search engines and is no good for keeping consumers up on the changes. IT will knock any confidence they have in you straight away. During the planning stage of the independent financial advisers website design you should give some thought to include a News section. This can then be changed and kept up with the times on a regular basis. This allows the consumer to be aware of what is happening in the financial world. You can inform the consumer of any new products and any awards your products win.
When it comes to promoting the firm then consider adding in a background history page when planning your website design. Here you can introduce individuals to the company and include a short biography of key members of staff. You can also put a picture to the face by inclusion of photographs. You should also explain the experience key staff have in plain terms.
Always bear in mind during the planning that the independent financial adviser’s website design should be well thought out when it comes to navigation. A website that is hard to navigate around and for the consumer to find what they are looking for will put them off.
Individuals will not want to have to search for the essential information they require as this takes time. Therefore, put all the important information and links in an easy to find order on the homepage. Consumers will either leave your site or go to one that is easier to negotiate if they find your website hard to navigate around. Failing this, they could be tempted into taking out a financial product they know nothing about. This is detrimental to both the consumer and your business.
For expert independent financial advisers website design and programming contact us.