Category: Uncategorized

Unveiling the Square-ly Truth: Navigating the Quirks of Squarespace and Pondering the Depths of Digital Seas

Greetings, intrepid readers, as we venture into the kaleidoscopic world of website design. People often ponder, what is the best platform to build my website on? Today, due to good marketing and more than 100 million dollars spent on advertising we see the enigmatic Squarespace take center stage. Join us on this journey through the charming façade of Squarespace… Where beauty sparkles on the surface but leaves us questioning – is there more beneath or just an illusion of depth?

The Enchanting Saga of Squarespace: SEO, a Fleeting Spectacle

In the realm of Squarespace, SEO is a bit like a mischievous sprite. It appears briefly and then disappearing into the virtual woods. The built-in tools may suffice for quaint digital cottages, but what for those seeking to ascend the SEO throne? Well, Squarespace might feel more like a jester’s jest than a royal decree.

Customisation, a Mythical Unicorn in Squarespace’s Kingdom

Ah, the allure of customizations, the mythical unicorn of web design! Yet in the dominion of Squarespace, unicorns are as elusive as whispers in the wind. You may tweak colours and fonts. But the true magic of tailor-made designs may be hidden in a tower guarded by pixelated dragons. For those yearning for the embrace of unicorns, Squarespace’s templated ball might feel more like a barn dance.

Unmasking the Illusion: What Web Designers May Conceal

But, the plot thickens! As you set forth in search of your digital empire, beware the court jesters masquerading as web designers. Some agencies may construct your realm with the enchanting powers of Squarespace. However, they may charge you as if they summoned a bespoke masterpiece from thin air. Do not be deceived! A templated castle should not carry the same weight as a fortress meticulously designed and crafted brick by brick.

Peering Below the Surface: The Depths of Squarespace’s Shallow Prettiness

At face value, Squarespace websites possess the potential for beauty, akin to a picturesque pond. But, dear reader, is there anything truly beneath the surface, or is it all just a dalliance with shallow pretense? We ponder the lingering question: Is Squarespace’s charm skin-deep, or does it hold a hidden symphony waiting to be uncovered?

The Moral of Our Digital Odyssey: Seeking Substance Beyond the Surface

As the curtain descends on our Squarespace saga, remember this: Unveil the depths, seek substance beyond the surface. In the vast expanse of website builders, It may be a dazzling mirage, but is there a tangible oasis beneath the surface? When enlisting the services of web design sorcerers, insist on transparency. Ensure they’re not showcasing a beautiful illusion while charging for a voyage into the profound.

Thus, digital wayfarers, may your exploration be filled with wonder, scrutiny, and the discernment to recognize whether Squarespace’s allure is a mere reflection or a genuine depth waiting to be explored. Until our paths converge again, happy wandering through the enchanting landscapes of the internet! 🏰✨

Are you a business owner based in Christchurch in need of a new website?

If so, you may feel like you should only look for a web design company located in Christchurch, assuming it will offer better service as they are local. However, is this really necessary? And is that necessarily true?

Well, let’s explore why you don’t actually need to use a Christchurch web design company, based in Christchurch. And why some companies around New Zealand are just as capable and skilled.

Websites are not just about pretty designs these days either. You want to find a company, that can create a great-looking, functional website, without a doubt. However, once launched, it doesn’t matter how awesome it looks or works if no one can find it right?

Times have changed. Website design has changed. In fact, traditional website design is broken! And furthermore, digital services have changed. There is no longer a need to rely on face-to-face contact all of the time.

Christchurch Web Design can be done from anywhere

At Back9 Creative, we have been designing and building websites for many years with an experienced in-house team — including web design Wellington projects nationwide — and we want to help business owners and marketing professionals make the right decisions for their businesses. And that means choosing the right web design company for them. And that doesn’t always mean they’ll be in the same town or city.

Just like companies who sell online all around New Zealand, an office or store in each town is a thing fo the past. Just ask our mates at Safety 1st NZ!

When it comes to web design, location isn’t essential either. Companies around New Zealand, including those outside of Christchurch, often have the same set of skills, resources, and tools to deliver high-quality websites. At Back9 Creative, we have clients from all over New Zealand, and technology has made it possible to communicate effectively without the need for frequent face-to-face meetings.

Our team is always available to have a phone call or video chat, and we’ve never previously had issues with this communication style.

Some other considerations include the following:

Competitive Pricing for Web Design in Christchurch

When it comes to web design in Christchurch, businesses often contemplate the benefits of choosing a local agency versus one based outside the city. While local agencies may have a deeper understanding of the regional market, it’s essential to recognize that agencies based outside Christchurch, New Zealand, can still offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality.

Additionally, agencies outside Christchurch often bring a fresh perspective and a diverse skill set, ensuring innovative and up-to-date design solutions. Choosing a web design agency based outside Christchurch can be a strategic decision, offering a blend of affordability, expertise, and a global perspective.

Remote work is now the norm

The COVID-19 pandemic seems like ancient history some days. But the reality is it has changed the way we work, and for many web designers, working remotely is now the norm. This means that you can work with a company based anywhere in the country, and still receive the same level of service and quality that you would expect from a local company. By broadening your search to include companies outside of Christchurch, you may be able to find a web design company that’s a better fit for your needs.

In-person meetings are still possible

While remote work is now the norm, that doesn’t mean that in-person meetings are a thing of the past. Many web design companies are still happy to meet with clients in person, and Christchurch is only a short flight away from many other cities in New Zealand. We recently completed a website for the NZ Flying Doctors, who are based in Christchurch. We flew up to meet them initially, and this set us off on the right foot. If you’re based in Christchurch but are considering a company from outside the city, you can still arrange face-to-face meetings if needed.

Web Design Christchurch, Wellington, or Wherever…

At Back9 Creative we approach web design in Christchurch, Wellington, Auckland, or even on our own doorstep in Invercargill the same way. We look at what you are trying to achieve from a website and we make that happen. By adopting an Inbound Growth-Driven Philosophy, a website can deliver massive results and generate exponential revenue. Even when you’re not selling online. You just need to understand a website is a neverending work in progress. It is a sales tool. And a website is like a staff member.

We’re about delivering long-term tangible results, and not a set-and-forget move-on to the next project kind of philosophy, so if you think that may be for you, then get in touch. We’d love to have a chat.

Don’t let location be a barrier to getting a great website

In conclusion, location isn’t a factor when choosing a web design company. The availability of technology and communication methods has made it possible to work effectively with companies located anywhere in New Zealand. With Back9 Creative, you will be working with an experienced team with specialized skills, resources, and tools to deliver high-quality websites. Plus, we’re always just a phone call or video chat away and provide cost-effective services. So, if you’re in need of a new website but don’t want to limit yourself to Christchurch-based companies, Back9 Creative is here to help.

At Back9 Creative Studio, we love crafting websites that grow businesses. So why don’t we work with Wix, a seemingly popular platform? Let’s talk about it.

Firstly, it promises simplicity, and yes, it’s tempting. However, simple doesn’t always mean effective. In our experience, simplicity with any template website solution often sacrifices flexibility. Businesses evolve, and your website must adapt smoothly. Unfortunately, Wix struggles to keep pace with the dynamic changes businesses need for growth.

Furthermore, SEO capabilities are essential for modern businesses. Wix does offer basic SEO tools, true. Yet, their functionality pales compared to platforms designed specifically for robust digital growth. Effective SEO isn’t merely ticking boxes; it’s about precise control, advanced tools, and continual refinement. Wix’s limited toolkit often leaves businesses frustrated.

Additionally, the code behind these templated sites is typically bloated. While this might sound technical, here’s why it matters: bloated code slows down your website. Slow websites frustrate users and impact your Google rankings. In a competitive online market, your website’s speed isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. Sadly, Wix doesn’t quite deliver on this front.

Scalability is limited

scalability is key. Today’s startup could become tomorrow’s market leader. Your website needs the muscle to grow with you. Wix, though convenient initially, stumbles when businesses require more complex solutions. Migrating from Wix to a more scalable platform later can be costly and cumbersome. Essentially, you’re kicking the problem down the road.

And let’s not overlook ownership and control. With Wix, you’re essentially renting your digital property. You can’t easily transfer your site away from Wix if your needs change. We believe businesses should own their digital assets outright. After all, your website is your online home—would you rent your house forever?

Speaking of ownership, it’s important to also highlight proprietary versus open-source platforms. Wix is proprietary, meaning you’re locked into their ecosystem. Open-source platforms, however, empower businesses with freedom and flexibility. You’re never stuck with one provider, and you can customise or extend functionality freely. This openness aligns perfectly with our vision of giving businesses full control over their digital presence.

Wix Pricing

Cost is another consideration. Wix pricing is in USD, meaning you have exchange rate fluctuations to factor into your budget. Additionally, payments made to Wix don’t contribute taxes to the New Zealand economy or support local hosting businesses. Server location also matters; although Wix servers are globally distributed, you don’t get direct control over where your data resides. Local hosting often means faster speeds and clearer compliance with local regulations.

Additionally, customisation matters deeply. Each brand has a unique story to tell. Platforms like Wix offer numerous templates, but templates rarely capture authentic uniqueness. Custom-built solutions, using more versatile platforms, tell your brand’s story exactly how it deserves to be told. We value creative freedom, and Wix often ties our creative hands.

Finally, we value collaboration deeply at Back9 Creative Studio. Great websites result from genuine partnership. Wix’s DIY nature may sound empowering but often isolates businesses. You’re left troubleshooting alone when things don’t work as planned. We prefer empowering our clients through collaboration, not isolation.

We’re not Anit-Wix, we’re pro-growth

So there you have it. We’re not anti-Wix; we’re pro-growth, pro-flexibility, and pro-control. Our choices reflect our commitment to helping clients thrive sustainably. We build websites that adapt, scale, and evolve continuously—exactly what this platform and others like it struggles to offer.

In short, choosing Wix, Squarepace, Weebley, Shopify and others like it is like choosing fast food: quick, convenient, but rarely nutritious. At Back9 Creative Studio, we prefer serving websites with substance—deliciously scalable, effectively optimised, and precisely customised. Your business deserves nothing less.

Buyer Persona you say? Huh, sounds made up!? At Back9 Creative, we understand that so many aspects of digital marketing are a bit of a minefield and hard to understand. In the vast and sometimes perplexing world of marketing, the term “buyer persona” is thrown around like confetti at a celebration of consumer insights. But what exactly is a buyer persona, and why should you care? Fear not, dear reader, for we are about to embark on a whimsical journey to demystify this elusive creature and bring it into the spotlight.

The Birth of the Buyer Persona

Imagine a dark and stormy night in the depths of a marketing laboratory. As marketing scientists huddled over their keyboards, sipping their potions of coffee, they concocted the mystical formula for understanding the wants and needs of their target audience. And low and behold, the buyer persona was born!

Anatomy of a Buyer Persona

Our buyer persona is not a mythical creature with wings or a fearsome beast with scales. No, it’s a detailed, semi-fictional representation of your ideal customer. Picture this: a blend of demographics, psychographics, and behaviors, all stitched together like Frankenstein’s monster, but with a much friendlier disposition.

The Sherlock Holmes of Marketing

A buyer persona is your trusty detective, armed with a magnifying glass, tirelessly investigating the mysteries of consumer behavior. What makes them tick? What keeps them awake at night? And most importantly, what snacks do they reach for during late-night Netflix binges?

How to Create Your Own Buyer Persona

Creating a buyer persona requires a delicate touch, like sculpting a masterpiece out of marketing clay. Conduct surveys, interview your customers, and perhaps consult a crystal ball (or a more reliable data analytics tool) to gather the information needed. Don’t forget to throw in a pinch of imagination – after all, we are crafting semi-fictional characters here.

Meet Our Star: Patricia, the Picky Shopper

Now, let’s introduce you to our star buyer, Patricia. She’s a 35-year-old marketing professional who enjoys long walks down the digital marketing aisle. Patricia is the Sherlock Holmes of online shopping, scouring reviews and meticulously comparing product features before making a decision. She’s the discerning consumer you want to impress.

Why Befriend a Buyer Persona?

Think of a buyer persona as your marketing sidekick. Understanding Patricia’s quirks and preferences allows you to tailor your products, services, and messaging to meet her expectations. It’s like having a secret handshake with your customers, a personalised touch that says, “We get you, Patricia!”

In the grand tapestry of marketing, the buyer persona is the colorful thread that weaves a story of connection between businesses and customers. So, embrace the whimsy of creating your buyer personas. As you delve into the depths of consumer insight remember these are a semi-fictional representation of your ideal customers so you don’t need too get too carried away. Now go forth, armed with knowledge and a twinkle in your eye, and get more targeted with your marketing!

Growth-Driven Design: A Smarter Way to Build Your Website
Traditional websites are broken! They are static, costly and quickly become outdated. At Back9, we do things differently. Our Growth-Driven Design (GDD) approach launches a lean, high-performing site fast, then improves it monthly using real data. Growth Driven Design is simplified at Back9, making it not just a website—it’s a living, evolving digital asset designed to grow with your business and deliver results. If you’re serious about lead generation, performance, and long-term ROI, GDD is the clear choice.

Growth-Driven Design (GDD) – Full Inclusions Overview (of what can be included)

Strategy & Setup

• Launchpad Website
  • A streamlined, high-impact version of your website launched quickly to start collecting user data
  • Prioritised pages such as Home, Services, Contact, About, Testimonials
  • Built to be fast, secure, mobile-friendly, and optimised for conversion
• Strategy Phase
  • User persona development
  • Customer journey mapping
  • Keyword research and SEO planning
  • Competitor analysis
  • Wireframing and UX strategy
  • Clear goal and KPI alignment
• Analytics and Tracking Setup
  • Google Analytics 4
  • Google Tag Manager
  • Heatmapping tools (e.g. Hotjar or Microsoft Clarity)
  • Event and conversion tracking
  • UTM tagging structure for campaigns
• Tool and Platform Integration
  • Google Business Profile creation or optimisation
  • CRM integration (e.g. HubSpot, SharpSpring, Zoho)
  • Email marketing tools (e.g. Klaviyo, Mailchimp)
  • Live chat or AI chatbot setup
  • Booking systems or calendar tools if required

Design and Content

• Conversion-optimised UX and UI design
• Custom responsive layout for desktop, tablet, and mobile
• Modular page templates for scalable growth
• Copy editing or content refinement (or full writing if scoped separately)
• Image preparation and optimisation (web-ready, compressed, tagged)
• Structured data and schema markup for SEO performance

Ongoing Optimisation

• Monthly Reporting and Strategy Sessions
  • Website performance analytics
  • User behaviour insights
  • SEO keyword tracking
  • Ad and conversion performance reviews
  • Data-driven improvement planning
• Continuous Improvement Sprints
  • Rolling updates based on live data
  • May include:
    • New landing pages or sections
    • Design enhancements or layout tweaks
    • Navigation improvements
    • Content updates
    • Speed and performance tuning
    • Conversion rate optimisation (e.g. A/B testing)
• SEO Enhancements
  • Ongoing metadata and on-page SEO updates
  • Keyword targeting refinements
  • Link-building campaigns
  • Blog/article planning and publishing
• Marketing Support
  • Google Ads and Meta campaign strategy
  • Landing page creation for campaigns
  • Lead capture enhancements
  • Retargeting and funnel development
  • Newsletter templates and automation setup

Maintenance and Support

• Routine updates to plugins, themes, and CMS core
• Site security monitoring and protection
• Automated daily/weekly backups
• Uptime monitoring and priority support
• Technical troubleshooting and bug fixes

Optional Add-ons

• Video production and editing
• Photography direction and asset production
• Brand refresh or full brand development
• Full-service content writing or re-writing
• E-commerce functionality and improvements
• Multi-language site configuration
• Custom training guides or client documentation
• Strategy workshops and consulting sessions

Key Differences to Highlight

• Traditional websites are fixed and often become outdated quickly. They are a one-time cost but deliver limited long-term value.
• Growth-Driven Design – simplified- treats your website as an evolving business asset. It spreads your investment and delivers ongoing results.
• GDD reduces risk, increases agility, and turns your site into a tool for continuous improvement, marketing, and lead generation.