There are a number of reasons why websites don't work. Five of the top reasons why websites fail to meet expectations are listed below.

1. Your nephew Jimmy: Leaving your company website in the hands of a relative, student, or anyone with a little computer knowledge to save money is unwise. Aside form the obvious qualification issues, there typically is no sense of obligation in this type of relationship. The psychology is the person building your site probably believes they are doing you a favor so almost any result is acceptable. An important business tool (investment) should be connected by an important business relationship.
 
2. Amateur quality: You would not present a business card to your customer that is made from notebook paper. So why would anyone allow their company to be represented by a website lacking professional quality? Amateur production extends beyond the inappropriate use of graphics. Poor navigation, excessive load times, unnecessary or unclear text, poor images, and unappealing colors all contribute to a bad impression and quick exit by potential clients. In short, having no web site is better than a bad web site.

3. Unclear Objectives: Failure to thoroughly plan your website from the beginning can result in costly and time-consuming changes. A properly planned web site begins with clear objectives. Take the time to understand your business needs and objectives before making recommendations. If you need help, hire an expert. Isn't that what you do for legal or tax issues? Technology is a tool, not a toy. A professionally planned web site should be a component of your business plan and an important investment in your business.
 
4. Stale sites: Stale websites do not work. As your business changes and grows, your online representation should evolve as well. Having to pay someone for every little change, usually on their schedule, results in headaches for you and unnecessary expense. Content editing tools have become so user friendly that administrative personnel should be able to make minor changes to your site, which means minimal expense and no waiting for IT. In addition, the best firms offer standard editing packages on an annual subscription basis. Either solution lets you keep up with your business and budget accurately.
 
5. Customers can’t find you: "Build it and they will come" only works in the movies. Recent surveys indicate that 60%-70% of all product and service searches begin online. If you can’t be found, those potential customers cannot become your current customers. The proper tools and strategies can insure that the major search engines will find your website and deliver new customers.

Reason #5, is really reason #1!

Steve