How Does a Functional Website Make for a Fantastic Website?

What is the functionality? Well, let us start with the root of that term. “Functional” means “relating to the way in which something works or operates.” In short, functionality in the context of your law firm’s website is all about making sure that your website operates smoothly, intuitively, and accurately.

Moreover, there is a related definition of “functional.” That definition states as follows: “designed to be practical and useful, rather than attractive.” But, we all know that when it comes to your law firm website, you need to go for both, a site that is both functional and attractive.  

Now, in previous blogs we have discussed the “look” of a website, and what makes websites attractive to the user. Today, in this blog, we are going to emphasize the other side of the equation a little more. We are going to talk about functionality .  

First, we will cover the elements that can enhance the functionality of your law firm’s website. Then, we will delve into the reasons why your firm’s website also needs to be created with accessibility in mind.  

If you have more questions about functionality after reading this blog, we invite you to contact the experts in digital marketing in West Palm Beach, FL – Oamii . Our Oamii marketing professionals can provide effective marketing services that are second to none, at a reasonable price point. Contact us today by filling out our online contact form , or by calling us at 561-228-4111 .    

When a potential client interacts with your website, the person is looking for specific information. The better the functionality of your website, the easier it will be for the user to find what he or she is looking for. About 75 percent of consumers have reported that they make determinations and judgments about a company’s or law firm’s credibility based on their website design.  

75 percent!  That is a lot of pressure to put on your firm’s website. But it is an important number to keep in mind when ensuring that your website is “up to snuff.”  

You, therefore, want to make it a goal to avoid any unnecessary negative assumptions about your firm by making sure that the functionality of your website is simple and does not get in the way of the user’s experience. 

Here is a list of the fundamental elements that your law firm website should have to ensure that it functions appropriately.

1. Navigation is for a Potential Client

Clarity is key.  A site that is easy to navigate is one that has a title for each page, and the title provides users with information as to exactly what content they can expect from that webpage. The “KISS” rule (keep it simple, silly) is applicable here. The moment a website does the unexpected for the user, the more chance that the firm will be viewed negatively.  

Also, be sure that there is navigation at the top of your website. It is common now among virtually all law firm websites to have the navigation menu items at the top of a site’s homepage. It is also common for pages that have sub-parts to make sure that those subparts appear when users pass their mouse over an item in the navigation menu.

2. Minimize Scrolling

When you peruse a website, you might not consciously realize it, but you will likely lose a little patience if you have to scroll a lot to see a full webpage. While some scrolling can be expected, you want to be careful of the on-screen length of your webpage. You do not want potential clients having to scroll for a long time to get to the information that they are seeking. 

3. A Sitemap that is Clean

A sitemap is, essentially, a visual map of all of the pages on your website. The sitemap is not as much for users. Rather search engines (e.g. Google, Bing) scan your website. If the sitemap for your site is clean and clear, then it will be viewed favorably by the search engine’s algorithms, resulting in a positive bump in your search engine optimization.

4. Compatible with Mobile Devices

We are now at the point at which potential clients expect the mobile version of a website to be optimized to fit a smaller screen. In fact, 85 percent of consumers believe that a company’s mobile website should be as good or better than the desktop view of a website.  

That should not come as a surprise because most people now do the majority of their internet searches on their smartphones. That is particularly true for a service that is on an as-needed basis like legal services. Thus, be sure that your firm’s website looks great on a phone.

5. Search Function

Interestingly, a lot of law firm websites neglect to have a search bar, or search field, on their website. If you are able to include a search bar on your firm’s site, then you should do so. Why? Because it is a functionality feature that users will want to use. With legal sites in particular, you will have potential clients who are seeking specific information. A search bar, then, will be just the kind of functionality that could set your firm apart from the rest.  

In sum, help your firm’s brand by making sure that your firm’s website operates smoothly. That is what functionality is all about. 

 Oamii is laser-focused on digital marketing for law firms. Let us help you. We dedicate ourselves to optimizing your legal web design to deliver quality content to bring in new business. We have the tools and the team to make sure that your brand, your webpage, and your firm are not only top-of-mind, but also ‘top-of-search engine!’ 

When you invest in marketing for your law firm, you want to work with an agency that brings your law firm the best results. You want to get the most out of your advertising budget and get the best return on investment. We at Oamii provide quality products and services to our clients while keeping their best interests in mind, making use the best legal marketing provider in West Palm Beach, Florida. Our deliverables are always provided on schedule, budget, and scope.

You have a choice with your marketing dollars and resources. If you want to increase your marketing reach and want a company that focuses on SEO for law firms, then look to the help of an experienced, professional, legal marketing provider in West Palm Beach. Look no further than Oamii to crack the code on how to improve your marketing game. We welcome you to contact us at Oamii to help you market your firm and build your book of business. Please fill out our online contact form , or call us at 561-228-4111 today.