The do’s and don’ts for optimizing your church website design

Oct 25, 2023 by

Brandon Duncan

With church website design, it's not just what you share but how you share it.

Navigating the online landscape as a church can be both exciting and, let’s be honest, a bit intimidating. Think of your website as your digital front porch, a warm and inviting space to greet newcomers while keeping your current community members engaged. But there are a few common pitfalls and golden rules we think you should keep in mind. Let's explore the do’s and don'ts of what it takes to build an engaging church website so you’ll be equipped for success on day one.
 

Do #1: Make the user experience a priority

When someone walks into your church for the first time, think about the visual cues that help them feel welcome: smiling faces, clear signage, and an inviting atmosphere all contribute to making a guest feel at home. Similarly, your church's website should provide a digital equivalent of that warm and friendly environment. Prioritize user experience by breaking down the journey you want them to take when they land on your homepage – where should they click to learn about upcoming events? How easy is it to find your weekly sermons? Do you have a dedicated section for newcomers? 

For example, having a visible "New Here?" tab in your main navigation can provide an immediate sense of direction, making visitors feel like you've prepared a special place just for them. This section can include everything a first-time guest might need – service times, directions, what to expect, and perhaps even a welcome video from the pastor. 

It's not just about looks; it's about making connections easier and making every click count. 

 

Do #2: Keep your content fresh and updated

Imagine the first impression made if a visitor walked into your church and saw outdated flyers from last year's Easter egg hunt or a banner promoting a Christmas service long past. They might wonder, "Is this place still active?" The same principle applies to your website. Keeping content fresh and updated is not merely a task to check off; it's a reflection of an active and engaged community. Regular updates create a sense of rhythm and routine, letting visitors know that the church is not just a building but a living, breathing community. 

Consider including a blog section where pastors can share weekly sermons or reflections. Update your photo gallery with images from recent events. Feature a calendar highlighting upcoming events, youth activities, or community outreach programs. You could even spotlight a "News & Updates" section on your homepage to keep your church members informed. 

Whatever you do to freshen up your content, the goal is to keep your community engaged and make newcomers feel confident they’ve discovered a vibrant, dynamic church family.

Do #3: Incorporate high-quality images

Photos on your church website are not just decorative; they're pieces of a much larger story. While it might be tempting to go with free stock photos (which isn’t always a bad thing), there's a unique power in using images from your own community. Imagine the impact of showcasing pictures from a recent mission trip or a spirited Sunday service. These visuals can resonate on an emotional level and serve as windows into the soul of your congregation. So, when it comes to selecting images for your website, go for those that are not only high quality but also rich in authenticity.

Do #4: Make contact information easily accessible

Communication is the heartbeat of a community. Whether a visitor has questions, needs directions, or wants to submit a prayer request, they should be able to reach out without going on a digital scavenger hunt. A fixed "Contact Us" button or icon, visible on every page or even in your website’s footer, can be a game-changer in enhancing accessibility. The easier for people to reach out, the easier it is to build and maintain your community.

 

Do #5: Implement a secure online giving option

In an age where many of our transactions are carried out online, offering a simple and secure online giving option is no exception. Make sure the platform you choose is secure and compliant with industry standards. By making it simple and secure to give, you're enabling members and visitors to actively participate in your church's mission, even from a distance. 

Don't #1: Overload your visitors with information

While your church has a lot going on (which is fantastic), overwhelming visitors with every detail on the homepage can be counterproductive. It's like a guest walking into your church and being handed a 20-page booklet of all your activities for the year – a little overwhelming, right? 

Instead, go for a highlights reel. Showcase a few upcoming events and provide a link to a detailed calendar for those who want to dive deeper. The goal is to engage, not overwhelm, making it easier for visitors to find what's most relevant to them and how much (or little) they want to get involved.

Don't #2: Use auto-play media

We've all been startled by a video or audio clip that starts playing unexpectedly. If you have a promotional video or special message from the pastor, it's great to showcase it but let users decide when they're ready to hit play. This ensures that the user experience remains pleasant and not intrusive. Make audio playable on demand, and consider using captions or summaries to entice visitors to click. This approach respects visitors' experience by giving them control over their interaction with your content.
 

Don't #3: Forget about mobile optimization

Ignoring mobile optimization is like hosting a church event but forgetting to set up chairs – people can still attend, but they won't be comfortable. If your website isn't mobile-friendly, you're missing out on connecting with a significant portion of your audience who primarily access your website from their smartphones. Whether someone is checking out your church from their living room or waiting in line at the grocery store, a mobile-friendly design ensures an all-around pleasant experience for all your visitors. 

The good news is that all GabrielSoft website themes are all mobile-friendly straight out of the box, with no extra coding or development work needed – we’ve got your back!

Don't #4: Neglect feedback

Feedback is a gift. Whether it's a suggestion for a new feature or a constructive critique, listening to your congregation can offer invaluable insights. Occasional feedback forms or surveys can keep your church website aligned with your community's evolving needs. The key here is knowing that your church’s website is for the end user, not you. So, be open to making changes as needed and if it makes sense.

Don't #5: Overcomplicate the design

While it's tempting to incorporate every modern design trend, it's essential to ask if it aligns with your church's message and enhances the user experience. A clean, straightforward layout can be both modern and timeless, welcoming everyone from the tech-savvy teen to the digital novice.

As you begin curating ideas, remember your church’s website design is an extension of your mission and message. And if ever in doubt, our team at GabrielSoft is here, ready to partner with you to get your message out to the world.

Did you find these tips helpful? We’d love to hear what are some other do’s and don’ts you’ve encountered in your online ministry. Be sure to share your feedback in the comments below.