I think all web developers have come across the following type of potential clients, and we are just absolutely floored. So here goes:

Business #1: They did their own site. It shows. They constantly refer to “contact us” on each page, but their email address is only on the home page and there is no link not even a “mailto”. They sell products and you cannot order them unless you call them. They think that’s just fine. But in this economy you cannot afford to do that. Oh heck, that’s any economy.

Business #2: Same thing. They also want to offer wholesale.

Business #3: Someone did their site in all graphics. Since the site was launched (2001?) they haven’t made one sale from their site. The site cost them $200. Actually the site has cost them more than that….all those lost opportunities for sales.

The problem with all three businesses is the total lack of understanding of how a well developed website can help their business. And many potential customers are not in their time zone.