Business owners 'must keep websites updated'

Small business owners have been warned to update their websites regularly as they can "languish very quickly".

The chairman of the British Computer Society's Internet Specialist Group, Howard Gerlis, claims that business owners often neglect their websites once the "initial excitement" has subsided.

"A good website must catch the eye and provide good content which is quick and easy to find. [Businesses should] always consider how they are going to have repeat viewings of the site, something to keep the customer coming back for more," he comments.

Mr Gerlis adds that it is not necessary for all businesses to have a website, but says that business owners who do have an online presence should ensure their site is well-maintained.

A study by Netflare recently revealed that 23 per cent of small business owners had not updated their website since it was launched.

It also emerged that 38 per cent of SME owners spend no money on keeping their site updated.