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What Is a Launchpad Website?

Posted on by Phil

When it comes to digital growth, waiting months to launch a new website can stall momentum and delay results. At Back9, we’ve seen it all too many times… It’s frustrating, and that is why we believe traditional web design is broken. That’s where a Launchpad Website comes in—a powerful starting point in the Growth-Driven Design (GDD) process that helps you get real results, fast.

Unlike traditional websites that aim for perfection before going live, a Launchpad Website is built to be better than what you currently have—but it’s not the final version. Instead, it’s designed to go live quickly, collect real user data, and continuously improve from there. Think of it as your MVP (Minimum Viable Product) for the web.

Why Start with a Launchpad Website?

Launching a full website with every feature and page perfected can take 3–6 months (or more, in some cases we’ve seen it take 2 years or more!). That’s a long time to go without feedback or results. A Launchpad Website flips this approach by getting something live within 30 to 60 days.

This gives you three key advantages:

  1. Speed to Market: You start generating traffic, leads, and insights earlier.
  2. Data-Driven Improvements: Instead of guessing what users want, you use real data to guide future updates.
  3. Cost Efficiency: You avoid the big upfront investment of a traditional website and instead spread your budget across smarter, phased improvements.

With a Launchpad Website, you’re no longer working in the dark. You’re learning as you go, which ultimately results in a site that performs better and serves your users more effectively.

What’s Included in a Launchpad Website?

Even though it’s built quickly, a Launchpad Website is far from a “half-baked” version of your site. It includes all the essential pages, core functionality, and design elements that reflect your brand and serve your users’ primary needs.

Typical components include:

  • A homepage that reflects your brand story and value proposition
  • Core product or service pages that guide users to action
  • Conversion points like calls-to-action, lead forms, or booking tools
  • Mobile responsiveness and SEO basics from day one

However, not every possible page or feature makes the cut—yet. The idea is to prioritise what’s essential for launch and leave lower-impact features for future iterations.

How Is It Different from a Traditional Website?

Traditional web design is like building a mansion from scratch. It takes time, money, and a lot of upfront planning. But if something doesn’t work once it’s live, it’s expensive and time-consuming to fix.

A Launchpad Website takes a smarter approach. By launching sooner and learning faster, you’re constantly evolving based on real-world use. This means fewer assumptions and more results.

It’s not about cutting corners. It’s about being strategic with what goes live first, so you can continuously build on a strong foundation.

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Transitioning from Launchpad to Continuous Improvement

The beauty of a Launchpad Website is that it’s just the beginning. Once it’s live, you enter the continuous improvement phase of Growth-Driven Design. This is where the real magic happens.

Using data from tools like heatmaps, session recordings, and analytics, you begin to identify what’s working—and what’s not. You test new ideas, optimise for conversions, and refine your messaging over time.

This iterative cycle ensures that your website never grows stale. Instead, it grows with your users, your business, and your goals.

Is a Launchpad Website Right for You?

If you’re a growth-minded business looking for smarter ways to use your website as a tool—not just a brochure—then a Launchpad Website might be exactly what you need. It helps reduce risk, improve speed, and ensures that your digital presence is always aligned with user needs.

Best of all, it’s built on collaboration, learning, and agility—key values in today’s fast-paced digital world.

In Summary: A Launchpad Website isn’t a shortcut—it’s a smart start. It gets you to market faster, sets the stage for real results, and turns your website into a growth engine. By focusing on performance and data, rather than perfection from day one, you’re setting your business up for long-term digital success.

Growth-Driven Software Development in NZ

Posted on by Phil

Future-ready. Customer-focused. Always improving.

In today’s fast-moving digital world, at Back9 Creative we understand Kiwi businesses need software that grows with them. Growth-driven software development is the smarter, more adaptable way forward—rooted in agile thinking and built to evolve.

What Is Growth-Driven Software?

Growth-Driven Software focuses on continuous improvement, scalability, and customer-centricity—not fixed features or rigid timelines.

Traditional DevelopmentGrowth-Driven Development
Fixed plans & scope (often run over budget)Flexible & adaptive
Big launches (takes longer to launch)Iterative rollouts
Limited feedback cyclesOngoing user feedback

Core Principles of Growth-Driven Software Development in NZ

  • Flexibility – Change-friendly and future-ready
  • Scalability – Grows with your business
  • User Focused – Built around real customer needs

Agile: The Engine Behind It All

Agile development powers growth-driven software with iterative, feedback-led processes.

Key Features of Agile:

  • Iterative Cycles – Build, test, improve, repeat
  • Cross-Team Collaboration – Everyone has input
  • Customer Feedback Loops – Stay aligned with users

Why NZ Businesses Are Embracing Growth-Driven Software Development

Enhanced Adaptability
Quickly respond to changing markets or new opportunities.

Improved Efficiency
Streamlined development means faster releases and lower costs.

Competitive Advantage
Innovate continuously and stay ahead in your industry.

Higher Customer Satisfaction
Deliver solutions your customers actually want.

How to Get Started

  1. Assess Your Business Needs
    Identify goals, gaps, and user expectations.
  2. Choose the Right Partner
    Look for proven agile experience and strong communication.
  3. Embrace Continuous Improvement
    Make feedback loops and iteration a habit.
  4. Leverage Smart Tech
    Use cloud, AI, analytics, and modern frameworks.

Final Thought

“Don’t just build software—build momentum.”

Growth-Driven Software Development isn’t just a method. It’s a mindset shift. When you build for change, you build for growth.

Ready to explore growth-driven software development?
Let’s chat and see how it could transform your business.

A/B Testing: Laying the Groundwork for Smarter Digital Decisions

Posted on by Phil

At back9 Creative, we’re all about helping businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving digital world. That means we understand how every click, scroll, or pause tells a story. And when growth is the goal, those stories need to be backed by data… Not guesswork. This is where A/B testing earns its place as a foundational tool in the digital marketer’s toolkit. Moreover, it’s essential for Measuring Digital Success in Growth Drvien Design!

Often referred to as split testing, A/B testing involves comparing two versions of a digital asset—like a webpage, email, or ad—to see which performs better with your audience. Simple in concept, powerful in execution. But there’s more going on under the hood than meets the eye.

At its core, A/B testing aligns perfectly with the philosophy behind Growth-Driven Design. It’s about learning continuously, optimising intelligently, and never settling for a ‘set-and-forget’ approach. Each test becomes a stepping stone toward something better, driven by real user behaviour.

Why A/B Testing Matters

In a fast-moving digital world, making decisions based on assumptions is a risky game. So, A/B testing provides data-driven clarity. By isolating a single change—whether it’s a call-to-action (CTA) button, a subject line, or even the hero image on your homepage—we’re able to see how that tweak influences engagement or conversion.

These small experiments can lead to big shifts. Testing is not just about improving metrics like click-through or bounce rates; it’s about understanding how your audience interacts with your content, and using that insight to guide your next move.

And in an environment where budgets need to perform and user expectations are high, that kind of clarity is invaluable.

The Nuts and Bolts: What Happens Behind the Scenes

Though it’s easy to run an A/B test with today’s tools, designing one that delivers meaningful results is a little more nuanced. Simple but not easy, right?! A/B testing is basically like running an experiment. Therefore, it starts with a clear hypothesis. In short, what are you hoping to learn? From there, you’ll choose a single variable to test and determine how long the test should run and how big your sample size should be.

This is where statistical significance enters the picture. It helps determine whether the performance difference between version A and version B is genuinely meaningful or just a fluke. Without that, you’re working on shaky ground.

From Insights to Action

The end goal of A/B testing isn’t just a winner between two versions—it’s insight. It’s the ability to say why one variant performed better and what that means for future decisions.

Sometimes, a change improves one key metric but unexpectedly affects another. It’s not about blindly chasing numbers—it’s about balancing the outcome with your broader strategy. A/B testing, especially when folded into a Growth-Driven Design process, becomes a continuous loop of learning and refining.

Think of it as part of a broader culture of optimisation. You’re not just making changes—you’re building a smarter, more responsive digital presence over time.

Avoiding the Common Pitfalls in A/B Testing

Even seasoned marketers can fall into a few traps: calling a test early, testing too many elements at once, or ignoring external factors like seasonality or traffic spikes.

The most reliable results come from a disciplined approach—one change at a time, tested for long enough to reach valid conclusions, and always with a clear objective in mind.

Wrapping It Up

Just like GDD itself, A/B testing isn’t a one-off tactic. It’s a mindset. A commitment to learning what works, what doesn’t, and why—and using those insights to drive continual growth.

When built into a Growth-Driven Design framework, it becomes even more powerful. Each test feeds the next, creating a feedback loop that sharpens strategy, aligns with user needs, and delivers real business impact.

In short? A/B testing isn’t just for marketers—it’s for anyone serious about building better digital experiences.

Best Web Design NZ has to offer in 2025

Posted on by Phil

Are you searching for the best web design NZ has to offer? Your search ends here.

But before we highlight who tops our list, let’s discuss the qualities that distinguish great web design companies from the rest.

What Makes an Exceptional Web Design Company?

First, an outstanding web design agency needs to have proven expertise and extensive experience in creating visually appealing, user-friendly, and conversion-focused websites. They should stay current with web design trends, UX/UI best practices, and emerging technologies, ensuring your site not only looks good but performs exceptionally.

Customer service is another crucial factor. Does the team listen carefully to your goals and understand your unique needs? Are they responsive and committed to delivering an outstanding final product?

The best web design agencies in NZ and around the globe, prioritise client satisfaction and should provide ongoing support well after your site is live. This is because a website is never really ever complete. If you treat your website like the 24/7 staff member you never knew you needed – and work on continual improvement, it will pay off in the long run.

In addition, that agency will understand the importance of seeing a website as an investment. Therefore wanting to help you gain a return on said investment (ROI). The best web design companies will recommend solutions tailored to your budget, ensuring maximum value without compromising quality.

Now, let’s introduce some of the best web design agencies in NZ:

1. Back9 Creative

Based in Invercargill and Christchurch, we specialise in Growth-Driven Design (GDD), creating websites that evolve continuously based on real user data. From UX/UI Design to Fully custom web development, we help businesses build their digital assets into an ever-evolving competitive edge. As a NZ’s WordPress Experts and leading digital agency in Southland, at Back9 we cutting-edge design with strategic insights to ensure your website generates measurable results and growth.

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2. White Rabbit

White Rabbit, based in Auckland, crafts stunning, custom websites designed to enhance user experience and drive conversions. With an emphasis on creativity and innovative design, they deliver websites that align perfectly with your brand identity and business objectives.

3. The Web Guys

Located in Parnell, Auckland, The Web Guys excel at creating engaging, visually impressive digital experiences. From strategy and design to development and deployment, they provide comprehensive services designed to inspire your audience and drive meaningful results for your brand.

4. Kiwi Website Design NZ

Kiwi Website Design is an Auckland-based agency with a reputation for building professional, affordable, and responsive websites. Specialising in customised solutions for businesses of all sizes, their dedicated team ensures your website stands out in today’s competitive online market.

5. Hart Design

Hart Design, based in Auckland, takes pride in delivering beautifully crafted websites designed to perform exceptionally. Their experienced team is known for combining aesthetics with functionality, creating websites that enhance your online presence and drive business growth.

6. Zesty Design

Zesty Design provides vibrant, innovative website designs in Auckland tailored specifically to small and medium-sized businesses. They prioritise clarity, user engagement, and effective design strategies, ensuring your site stands out and generates real business results.7.

7. Lucid Media

Lucid Media, based in Auckland NZ, offers professional web design services aimed at boosting your brand’s visibility and user engagement. They focus on creating modern, responsive, and visually striking websites that deliver an optimal user experience across all devices.

8. Meta Digital

Meta Digital, create custom websites in Christchurch. They design dynamic, responsive websites with a strategic focus on driving leads and conversions. Their collaborative approach ensures websites not only reflect brand personality but also effectively engage target audiences.

9. Slightly Different

Based in Nelson, Slightly Different is known for their unique approach to custom web design and development. With a commitment to personalised service and distinctive design, they deliver high-performing websites that truly set businesses apart online.

So Who is the Best Web Design Company in NZ?

The answer to this question ultimately depends on your specific needs and goals. Whether you prefer working with a local provider or looking for a particular design style, each of these agencies offers impressive capabilities and expertise.

Explore your options, talk to the agencies, and choose a company that aligns perfectly with your vision and expectations. Good luck with your search!

When the Wrong Agency Gets It Wrong: The Harsh Cost of Poor SEO Decisions

Posted on by Phil

The cost of Poor SEO Decisions haunt us… So there’s a graph we keep on file — not to gloat, not to throw shade, but as a harsh reminder of what can happen when good SEO work gets undone by poor decisions.

Graph showing the decline and cost of poor SEO

The graph shows a rise from obscurity to visibility: organic rankings that grew steadily, peaking at around 11–12% visibility nationally. That growth didn’t happen overnight. It came from months of careful strategy, content development, technical SEO, and consistent, behind-the-scenes graft. That visibility translated into 80–100 genuine leads per month — real conversations with people ready to buy.

Then, it all came crashing down.

In December 2024, a new agency convinced the client to transfer their business to them and rebuild the website from scratch. That’s fine, we’ve always maintained that we don’t own anyone as a client and business is not a given… But since that launch, as you can clearly see on the chart, their visibility fell off a cliff. It’s now sitting at around 0.8%. Leads? From what we understand, they’re down to a trickle — maybe 5 to 10 a month if they’re lucky.

And look — we’re not here to say “told you so.”

We’re gutted.

Because behind that SEO performance was a team who genuinely cared. Who poured their energy, time, and experience into helping a business grow. We treat our clients’ brands like our own, and seeing our work unravel because someone else promised shortcuts or shiny new things? It stings.

This is why choosing the right digital partner matters. SEO isn’t a tick-box exercise. It’s not just about having a “nice” website or stuffing a few keywords into a page. SEO is technical. It’s strategic. In fact it’s bloody complex. And furthermore, it absolutely cannot be handed off to a provider who doesn’t understand how SEO works, how Google indexes sites, or what happens when you launch a new website without a proper migration plan.

There’s a harsh truth here: not all digital agencies are created equal. Some can sell ice in the arctic — and unfortunately, they’re better at selling than they are at delivering. It’s not just frustrating — it’s costly. Costly in leads, costly in ranking, and costly in lost opportunity.

If you’re thinking about changing providers or launching a new site — stop. Ask the hard questions:

  • What is your SEO migration plan?
  • How do you measure and track performance?
  • Can you show me results from other clients?
  • Do you actually understand what’s at stake?

Because getting it wrong doesn’t just set you back a month or two — it can erase a year (or more) of growth in a single stroke. And that’s the intangible Cost of Poor SEO.

We share this not to scare you — but to protect you. And if you’re reading this thinking, “This sounds familiar…” — we’re here. No judgment. No sales pitch. Just straight-up advice.

Because at the end of the day, results speak louder than promises. And that chart? That chart speaks volumes.

Best Mobile App Design NZ: Top 5 Companies to Work With

Posted on by Phil

Are you looking for the best mobile app design company in New Zealand? Choosing the right team is crucial for success. A well-designed app enhances user experience, improves engagement, and drives business growth. Here are the top five companies offering world-class mobile app design in NZ.

1. Back9 Creative

Back9 Creative is a leading name in mobile app design in New Zealand. They focus on creating intuitive and high-performing apps. Their approach revolves around Growth-Driven Design (GDD), ensuring apps evolve based on user data. They work closely with businesses to develop digital products that engage users and deliver results.

Why choose Back9 Creative?

Back9-website-Banner-CTA-image-for-How-much-does-a-mobile-app-cost

2. Sush Labs

Sush Labs is a mobile app development agency known for building innovative and scalable solutions. They create apps for startups, enterprises, and government organisations. With a strong focus on user experience and functionality, their apps are both visually appealing and highly efficient.

Why choose Sush Labs?

  • Custom app development
  • Expertise in Android and iOS platforms
  • Strong user experience focus

3. Boost

Boost is a well-respected mobile app development company in NZ. Their team builds apps using an agile process, ensuring quick iterations and improvements. They work with businesses of all sizes, offering custom mobile solutions that align with business goals.

Why choose Boost?

  • Agile app development process
  • Focus on business needs
  • Expertise in cross-platform app development

4. Orchid

Orchid designs and develops custom mobile apps that stand out. They focus on delivering seamless user experiences across all devices. With a strong portfolio of successful projects, they help businesses create engaging and functional mobile applications.

Why choose Orchid?

  • User-focused app design
  • Customised solutions
  • Expertise in multiple industries

5. Catch Design

Catch Design is a creative digital agency specialising in mobile app design and development. Their team creates apps that are visually stunning and functionally robust. With a strong emphasis on usability, they deliver mobile apps that users love.

Why choose Catch Design?

  • Focus on user-friendly design
  • Expertise in digital experience
  • Custom mobile solutions

Selecting the Best Mobile App Design Company in NZ

Choosing the right mobile app design company is vital. Consider experience, design expertise, and development approach. Look for a team that understands your business needs and creates an app that delivers value.

New Zealand has several top-tier mobile app development companies. Whether you need an intuitive app for users or a complex digital solution, these companies can help. Each one brings a unique approach, ensuring you find the right fit for your project.

Looking for expert mobile app design? These top five companies in NZ have the expertise to bring your vision to life.