Finding Website Designers in Invercargill: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Business

Posted on May 16, 2023December 8, 2025 by Phil Robinson

Are you looking for website designers in Invercargill?

If you’re on the hunt for web designers in Invercargill, chances are you’re looking to build or rebuild a website. In the past a website has been viewed by many as a portfolio – or a brochure. Some even say a window into your business. Well yes, this is true, but all of these are secondary functions these days.

In today’s digital age, having a well-designed website with an actual purpose is crucial for businesses of all sizes. You should view your website like a staff member.

Not only do we believe at Back9, that your website should be your best salesperson, but we also know our website is often the first impression potential customers have of your brand. That’s if it’s easy to find online of course. So your Search engine optimisation (SEO) needs to be on point for sure. And once found it needs to look appealing, user-friendly, and informative. If you’re looking to create or revamp your website in, this article will help you find and choose the best website designers in Invercargill to suit your business needs.

Start with Research

First, start your search by doing some research of your own. Look for website designers in Invercargill that are local. These may either be agencies or freelancers who specialise in web design. But beware of freelancers who say they design and build/develop websites. UX/UI Design and Website Development are two very different things.

The most obvious form of research these days is an online search, using Google for example. In a place like Invercargill, word-of-mouth recommendations are always popular too. Everybody knows somebody right? You may even want to look at local business directories.

Once you have a list of potential website designers, assess their online presence, portfolio, and what their customers are saying about them. This’ll help you zero in on the best fit for your website.

Discuss Your Requirements and Budget

So, you’ve narrowed down your options and you’re ready to get started on your website. The next step is to reach out to designers on your shortlist. Don’t be shy, tell them about your requirements and your budget. It’s important for website designers to understand what you have to work with. And what you’d like to achieve with your website. The less guesswork they have to do, or assumptions they have to make is better for everyone involved. If you’re wondering how much does a website cost then you’re not alone. And the reality is a website can cost next to nothing, to 10’s of thousands – depending on what you need. And what it needs to do. So know that will ultimately save time and money.

Check Their Technical Expertise

When looking at web designers in Invercargill – and beyond, it’s important to choose someone with both technical expertise and an eye for usability. It’s also important to note – this is unlikely to be the same person. So an agency covering multiple disciplines may be the best option. If you want to do updates yourself then ideally they’ll be experienced in working with content management systems (CMS). These may include WordPress, Silverstripe, or Joomla. The main thing is that they can design and create engaging, responsive designs that look stunning on any device. Confirm they can handle any specific features you require, like e-commerce, stock management, or some other API integrations

Assess Their Communication and Customer Service

Effective communication is crucial when working with a website designer. Choose a designer who is responsive, friendly, and easy to work with. They should be open to your ideas, provide regular updates, and be willing to make revisions if necessary.

What ongoing services, and maintenance do they offer?

As we’ve discussed a website is like a staff member, and any good business is always looking to continually develop its people. A website is no different. In order to see success online a website needs constantly maintained to stay on top of its game. From security updates to technical SEO, content creation, and more. Don’t fall into the set-and-forget trap that so many businesses do when they get a new website. The online landscape is constantly changing and your website needs to keep up. Or even better stay ahead! You may need to choose an SEO agency or you may find an agency that offers this too – if they’re half decent – they will!

In conclusion, finding the right website designer in Invercargill involves as little or as much time as you choose. You can simply run with the top-ranking one on Google. Or you can carefully research, evaluate portfolios, discuss your requirements, and assess their technical expertise, and communication skills. At the end of the day, it’s entirely up to you, But with an understanding of what you want and talking to the right website designers in Invercargill, you can find the right fit for your business. Once you do the sky is the limit and by measuring the right things you can truly win online. Good luck!

Opensource vs. Proprietary Platforms for Websites: Why Opensource is a Better Option

Posted on May 14, 2023October 14, 2023 by Phil Robinson

Opensource vs. Proprietary is probably not the most common question we get. That’s because most people don’t actually know there’s a difference.

At Back9 Creative we understand, that as a business owner, choosing the right platform for your website is really Important!

With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which platform to build your website on. If you choose to use a web design agency, like us, they’ll possibly specialise in one system or another. For example, at Back9 we specialise in Custom Websites and Custom App Development. And as a client who wants to update your website, then we recommend the open-source WordPress CMS – which is opensource.

But having said that, should you go for a proprietary platform or an open-source one? In this article, we will delve into the differences between open-source vs. proprietary platforms for websites. And why we believe that open-source is a better option.

Proprietary Platforms

Proprietary platforms are built and exclusively owned by a company, which means that the code is closed to the public. This generally limits the access for developers. This means it can make it less dynamic and slower to respond to changes in the market and customer needs. Simply put, it’s like having a car that you cannot get under the hood to finely tune for better performance. And Website speed and Maintenance are a crucial parts of realising success online in this digital age.

With proprietary platforms are a much more do-it-yourself solution. But some agency’s and feelancers do still use the. So it is important to understand how much and what you are paying for if using a website company’s services. These Platforms, often referred to as ‘Website Builders’ include the likes of Shopify, Squarespace, Wix, Weebly, and Expression Engine. With these companies, you don’t own the platform. You are simply paying a license to use it and house your content.

OpenSource Platforms

In contrast, open-source platforms are built collaboratively by communities of developers around the world. As a result, it has the advantage of an extensive community of developers continuously improving the software. That means they’re often fixing bugs and security vulnerabilities quickly, making it more resilient to cyberattacks. By being open, it also means that there is a greater range of plugins and integrations that can be used to improve website functionality too. And when compared to proprietary platforms that tend to only work with their own products this can be a huge benefit.

Personalised & Customised Experience

Customer engagement is vital for any online business. And open-source platforms enable the developer to tailor the website to be a more personalized experience. With its open-source code, developers can customise everything from the content management system (CMS) to the design and the customer journey. Proprietary platforms usually offer limited scope for personalization. Furthermore, they’re frequently only customizable with add-ins and plugins that require permission from the vendor. Oh and generally at an additional cost!

Opensource vs. Proprietary for Website Maintenance

The cost of service and maintenance could be another factor influencing your decision-making process. Generally, proprietary platforms come with a premium price tag, regularly incurring licensing fees and annual maintenance charges. When using open-source platforms, it is free to use, but some services such as hosting may still have a cost associated with them. Nevertheless, the development and maintenance of the site itself can be cheaper in the long run.

Image-Button-To-Read-Website-Maintenance-Ebook

Finally, open-source platforms offer more significant incentives for sustainability and longevity. Fundamentally, if the company that created the proprietary platform ceased to operate, there would be no more customer support and no longer any maintenance. However, developing communities within the open-source sector continue to evolve and evolve, ensuring your website will have an extensive support system for years to come. This is even more so if one chooses from the plethora of open-source CMSs such as WordPress, Drupal, or Joomla.

When it comes to choosing between opensource vs. proprietary platforms for websites, it is worth considering the differences discussed in this blog post. While vanilla proprietary platforms can offer a more secure and limited environment, an open-source content management system (CMS) can offer far more flexibility and scope for customization, which can lead to a more personalized experience for your customers. With the added benefit of very little financial overhead and ongoing community contribution, the open-source route offers the sustainability and versatility that can be vital to your online success. Ultimately, the choice depends on your long-term business goals and whether customizability, affordability, and sustainability align with the outcomes you want to achieve.

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6 digital marketing ideas

Posted on May 10, 2023September 11, 2025 by Phil Robinson

If you’re a business owner looking to take your digital marketing to the next level, it can be tricky knowing where to start. After all, there are a lot of options out there. And working out which ones work for you can seem overwhelming. But don’t worry – at Back9 Creative, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we outline six digital marketing ideas (or standards really) that any business owner can use to maximize their return on investment from digital marketing efforts. From developing an eye-catching website designed to maximize conversions, maximizing SEO performance, and Google Ads campaigns to leveraging social media outreach and creating stunning content pieces. Learn how businesses can drive growth with these great digital marketing ideas. Let’s dive in!

Create a Website that is designed to Convert

Best Practices for Design, Navigation, and Calls to Action

In today’s digital age, having a website that is designed to convert visitors into leads, and leads into customers is essential for any business. Your website should offer a clear and concise message that resonates with your target audience. The design, navigation, and calls to action on your website are critical elements. They can easily make or break your chances of converting visitors into customers. A visually appealing and easy-to-use website will not only attract visitors, but it will also keep them engaged and interested in what you have to offer. Including clear calls to action on every page will help guide visitors toward the actions you want them to take. This may include making a purchase or filling out a contact form. So, whether you’re starting a new website or redesigning an existing one, create a website that converts! Because quite simply – if your website sucks, it won’t convert!

SEO tips to increase your visibility on search engines

When it comes to boosting your online visibility, Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) is key. If you’re looking to increase your organic search traffic and climb the ranks of search engine results pages, implementing a few simple SEO tips can make all the difference. One of the most important things to focus on is creating high-quality content. You may be asking “when it comes to content, how is quality quantified?” Well in a nutshell it means that it’s relevant to your audience and utilizes keywords strategically. It’s also important to ensure your website is user-friendly and loads quickly. Don’t forget about the importance of building high-quality backlinks and using social media to promote your content! By taking these steps, you’ll be well on your way to improving your online visibility and growing your business.

Leverage Google Ads for maximum reach

Looking to get your brand noticed by a wider audience? It’s time to consider PPC (Pay-per-click) advertising. These ads can be highly targeted – and That means highly effective! PPC ads include Meta (Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger) and Google Ads! With the ability to target your ad campaigns to specific demographics and locations, you can ensure maximum reach and engagement with your target audience. And the best part? You only pay for clicks on your ads. And that means you’re not wasting any precious marketing budget on people who aren’t interested in your product or service. Plus, with detailed analytics and tracking, you can easily tweak and adjust your campaigns. And that ensures you’re getting the most bang for your buck. So why wait? Start leveraging the power of Google Ads for your brand today!

Use Social Media to Engage Your Audience with Creative Content

In today’s digital marketing age, social media has become an indispensable tool for reaching out to a wider audience. Whether you’re a small business or a large corporation, engaging your target market with creative content can improve your brand image and increase customer loyalty. By posting eye-catching visuals and sharing informative and interactive posts, you can build a loyal following and establish a connection with your audience. With the power of social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, you have the opportunity to showcase your brand’s personality, values, and unique offerings in a fun and exciting way. So, start using social media to your advantage and create content that your followers will love!

The Power of Great Content; How to Create Quality Content that Resonates with Your Target Audience

Creating great content is the key to reaching and engaging your target audience. While it may seem daunting to come up with fresh and exciting ideas, quality content that resonates with your audience is not only possible, it’s critical to the success of your business. Your content should not only be informative and educational, but it should also be entertaining and engaging. It’s important to think about what your target audience wants and needs and tailor your content to meet those needs. By creating content that speaks directly to your audience, you can build strong relationships and establish trust, which will ultimately lead to increased sales and brand loyalty. So, take the time to craft truly great content that will capture the attention of your target audience, and watch your business grow.

CRM and Marketing Automation

Marketing Automation and CRM tools are great to help you reach your audience more effectively and efficiently. With the right CRM software, you can manage multiple channels, create personalized campaigns, measure performance, and track ROI in real time. All of these features make it easier for businesses to connect with customers on a deeper level and build strong relationships that lead to repeat sales. Finding the right system can be a challenge – we know… We’ve just about tried them all. Fee free to discuss this with us. Like anything, the best solution will depend on your needs.

The Sky is the Limit

This is only the beginning! Implementing these 6 creative digital marketing ideas will help to get you started. But remember digital marketing doesn’t stop there – it carries on over time. The most successful digital marketing strategies are those focused on continuously updating and improving, rather than creating one-off campaigns. Make sure all elements of your strategy work together in order to achieve maximum reach and results. Invest in and understand conversion rate optimisation; and have a handle on content creation. Do this and you can continually update and improve your digital presence. Many of these ideas take commitment, organisation, and dedication – but it’s worth getting it right for the future success of your business. Get creative and be consistent with your approach today and over time you WILL reap the rewards!

Which industry needs digital marketing

Posted on April 26, 2023 by Phil Robinson

Much like the article which industry needs marketing in general. Every business needs digital marketing these days, no matter the industry. But some industries need it more than others. Digital marketing plays a vital role in a number of aspects of a business. From creating awareness to driving engagement with customers, and more.

So we’re going to explore which industries most need digital marketing to grow and survive in this modern world. We’ll look at the various ways that different industries can benefit from implementing effective strategies for their target audience – whether you’re running your own small business or working on launching a large corporation. By developing an understanding of how and where your company should use its resources for maximum effect, you can take advantage of all the opportunities available with efficient digital marketing campaigns.

Introduce the Benefits of Digital Marketing for Businesses

Digital marketing has revolutionized the way businesses operate in the modern world. And it makes it easier for smaller businesses to compete too. Digital Marketing encompasses a wide range of strategies and techniques. These in turn allow businesses to reach their customers in more effective and efficient ways.

With the rise of social media and e-commerce, digital marketing has become even more relevant. And that means it’s more relevant for businesses of all sizes. It has the potential to increase brand recognition, generate leads, and drive sales. Not only that, but digital marketing also offers a higher return on investment compared to traditional marketing methods. The beauty of this approach lies not only in its ability to reach a targeted audience. But constantly monitor and adjust campaigns based on performance data too. That means you can engage with customers in real time.

This means that businesses can tailor their marketing efforts to meet the needs of their customers. And ultimately that results in a more personalised customer experience. Overall, digital marketing has many benefits for businesses, and adopting these strategies can lead to increased revenue and market share.

Explore Digital Marketing Platforms and Strategies that Can Help Your Business Grow

The world of digital marketing is an ever-evolving space and it can be hard to know where to start. But fear not! There are numerous digital marketing platforms and strategies available that can help your business grow. From social media marketing to email campaigns, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. By taking advantage of these tools, you can increase brand awareness, reach new customers and ultimately drive revenue. And the best part? You don’t have to be a tech genius to use them. With a little research and a willingness to try new things, anyone can become a digital marketing pro. So why not take the plunge and explore the exciting world of digital marketing today? Your business (and your bottom line) will thank you for it!

Analyze the Different Industries that Would Benefit from Digital Marketing

The possibilities for digital marketing are almost endless! There are several industries that can benefit greatly from this form of advertising. One industry that could greatly benefit from digital marketing is the medical industry. With the advancement of medical technology and procedures, there is an increasing demand for healthcare services. By leveraging digital marketing service-based businesses can educate their buyers about their services. And most importantly increase their visibility in the industry. Similarly, the entertainment industry is another area where digital marketing can be highly effective. This is especially the case when reaching a younger, tech-savvy audience. By harnessing the power of social media, streaming services, and other digital platforms, entertainment companies can promote their productions and engage with their followers in a more meaningful way.

Ultimately, the benefits of digital marketing extend to almost every industry. And thus making it an essential tool for any business looking to stay competitive in the modern landscape.

Look at Examples of Successful Digital Marketing Campaigns in Each Industry

The world of digital marketing is constantly evolving, and it can be difficult to keep up with the latest trends and strategies. However, one way to stay ahead of the game is to look to successful digital marketing campaigns in each industry. Whether it’s a creative social media campaign, engaging email marketing, or a unique approach to SEO, there are countless examples of companies that have made a big impact through their digital marketing efforts. By studying these success stories and thinking outside the box, businesses of all sizes and industries can create their own winning campaigns that will capture the attention of their target audience and drive real results.

Highlight How Digital Marketing Can Help Reach Every Customer Segment

Digital marketing has revolutionized the way we communicate with consumers. The power of digital marketing lies in its ability to reach every customer segment, from baby boomers to millennials, in a more targeted and personalized way than ever before. With the rise of social media, mobile apps, and e-commerce platforms, marketers can now tailor their messages and offerings to specific subsets of customers based on their demographics, interests, and behaviors. This not only increases the effectiveness of marketing campaigns but also enhances the overall customer experience. By leveraging the latest tools and technologies, businesses can foster deeper connections with their customers and build brand loyalty that lasts a lifetime. So, whether you’re looking to attract new customers or engage your existing ones, digital marketing is the way to go.

Provide Tips on How to Best Implement Digital Marketing in Your Business

Digital marketing is a valuable tool for any business looking to increase their online presence and attract more customers. Implementing digital marketing strategies can be overwhelming at first, but with the right tips and guidance, it doesn’t have to be. First and foremost, it’s important to identify your target audience and create a plan that specifically targets their needs and interests. Next, focus on creating high-quality content that is optimized for search engines and encourages engagement with your brand. Social media is another crucial aspect of successful digital marketing, so be sure to establish a strong online presence and engage with your followers regularly. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new tactics to see what works best for your business. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to implementing digital marketing strategies that will drive growth and success for your business.

Digital marketing has become an incredibly powerful tool for businesses all over the world, regardless of industry. It provides the ability to quickly reach every customer segment while providing companies with the opportunity to get feedback from potential and current customers. By offering helpful tips and drawing on successful digital marketing examples, companies can maximize their reach and create more opportunities for growth. With its ability to be cost-efficient, scalable, and measurable, digital marketing should be integrated into any business model that wishes to succeed in the long run. Whether you’re a small start up or a large chain store, digital marketing should be on your radar if you want to remain competitive in this rapidly evolving marketplace. Start taking advantage of the tremendous power of digital marketing today!

How much does SEO cost in New Zealand?

Posted on April 24, 2023August 23, 2024 by Phil Robinson

The Elusive Price Tag of SEO in New Zealand

If you are in the process of expanding and marketing your business on the world wide web, you know the importance of SEO. Search engine optimisation (SEO) is a key factor in getting your website to the top of the search engine rankings. But, like everything else in life, it comes with a price tag. So, how much does SEO cost in New Zealand? And what factors affect the cost? But more importantly – what are the returns likely to be? Because let’s face it – if something costs $3000 per month, but returns 18,000 per month, that SEO cost quickly becomes an investment!

Let’s dive into the numbers and give you a better idea of the costs involved.

Average Monthly SEO cost in New Zealand?

First, let’s talk about How much SEO Services in NZ cost. Well, n average, the cost of SEO services in New Zealand can range anywhere between $500 to $3,000 or $4,000 per month. The costs can vary based on the scope of the project, the size of the job and the specific deliverables required. For instance, local optimisation for a small business may cost significantly lower than optimisation for an e-commerce giant with a national presence.

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What services may be included in an SEO retainer?

Your investment for SEO may also need to include some content creation. Content plays a huge part in SEO these days. This may be written content optimization, videography, photography or Graphic Design.

Technical SEO – all the things under the hood. Technical SEO is about overall website health and performance. The faster your website loads the more likely it will be shown higher up the rankings. Add quality content to the mix and this enhances user experience and therefore helps you rank better again over time.

Linking – Internal links and External (Backlinks) Keyword strategy and more…

Cost of One-off SEO Project in New Zealand

If you are considering a one-off project to optimise your website, the cost can range anywhere between $5,000 to $25,000, depending on the complexity of the job. Factors that affect the cost of one-time SEO projects include website size, technical implementation, and content creation. Remember though one-off is exactly that. One-off. Ranking factors and algorithms change frequently. That means ongoing maintenance and SEO is still very important.

How’s the competition?

Another factor to consider when asking How much does SEO cost in New Zealand, is competition. This can significantly impact the cost of SEO. Competitors in a specific industry or niche will have equal or better SEO strategy in order to rank better on Google. This implies that businesses in competitive niches like personal injury law, real estate, and digital marketing require more investment to reach their desired position in the search engine results pages.

Is there an Hourly cost for SEO in New Zealand?

If you are a small business owner looking for SEO services, the cost typically ranges from $100 to $250 an hour. This may seem expensive, but remember that SEO services can make a huge difference in the online visibility and sales of your business.

In conclusion, the cost of SEO services in New Zealand depends on multiple factors like the scope of the deliverables, nature of the project, size of the website, competition in the niche, and the expected ROI from the services. While the cost may seem steep at first glance, it’s essential to invest in the right SEO services, with the right SEO Agency, to see long-term benefits to help your business achieve online visibility and success.

Finding an SEO agency in Auckland

Posted on April 16, 2023April 19, 2023 by Phil Robinson

Are you looking for a way to get your business noticed and make sure it stands out against the competition? You’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, Let us guide you through what to look for when choosing an SEO agency in Auckland.

We’ll give you top tips from experienced digital marketers and tech gurus, giving insight into which agencies are worth engaging with.

What to Look for When Choosing an SEO Agency
How to Find the Best SEO Agency in Auckland
Benefits of Working With an Experienced SEO Agency
Questions to Ask Before Engaging with an SEO Agency
What to Expect From Your SEO Agency

So get ready to take your business up a notch, because everyone knows that effective search engine optimization is key in today’s online landscape. So let’s start having some fun as we find out how we can best maximize our efforts and skyrocket our businesses’ visibility on all major search engines!

What to Look for When Choosing an SEO Agency in Auckland

Choosing a SEO agency can be a daunting task, but fear not! With these tongue-in-cheek tips, you’ll be an expert in no time.

First and foremost, make sure the agency has a website. Sounds obvious, right? Trust us, you’d be surprised. Next, take a deep dive into their ‘About Us’ section. If they mention they were founded by a group of ‘SEO wizards’ or ‘digital ninjas’, proceed with caution. While we appreciate a good Harry Potter reference, personally we prefer a more down-to-earth approach. Finally, check their social media presence. Do they have a sense of humour? Can they meme with the best of them? Yes? Great! Now you’re ready to choose your SEO agency with confidence, because at the end of the day, who doesn’t want to work with a team that can make them laugh right?

How to Find the Best SEO Agency in Auckland

Looking for the best SEO agency in Auckland? Well, why don’t you just close your eyes and point to the first agency that comes up in your search results? I mean, it’s not like SEO is a complex, sophisticated field that requires extensive research and expertise, right? It’s just a matter of slapping a few keywords onto a webpage and calling it a day.

Haha, Of course not! Finding the right SEO agency is crucial to the success of your online presence. So, do your due diligence, ask the right questions, and don’t settle for less than the best. And hey, if all else fails, maybe just try picking the agency with the coolest logo 😉

Benefits of Working With an Experienced Agency

So, you’re thinking about working with an SEO agency in auckand, huh? Well, let me tell you, it’s not all rainbows and unicorns – it’s better! Working with an experienced SEO agency can bring your business all sorts of benefits. First and foremost, you can sit back and relax while the experts do the heavy lifting for you. No more pulling your hair out trying to figure out why your website isn’t ranking – let the pros handle it.

And with their expertise comes access to all sorts of fancy tools and resources you may not have even known existed. Plus, an experienced SEO agency can keep up with all the latest trends and updates, so you don’t have to. So go ahead, kick back, and let the SEO agency work their magic – you won’t regret it!

Questions to Ask Before Engaging with an Agency

Once you’ve finally decided to jump on the SEO bandwagon and hire an agency to help you climb to the top of Google’s search rankings. The Sky’s the limit! Now, before you sign on that dotted line, let’s make sure you’re not about to enter into a relationship with an agency better suited for a one-night stand. Ask yourself: Is the agency transparent about their strategies and tactics? Are they obsessed with link-building? Do they promise overnight success? Are they wearing a fedora? (Just kidding on that last one. Kinda.) By asking these questions, you can save yourself from the heartbreak of an SEO relationship gone wrong. Remember, it’s not you, it’s them.

What to Expect From Your SEO Agency

So, you’ve hired an SEO agency to boost your online presence. Congratulations, you’re one step closer to digital domination! But what should you expect from these magical mystical wizards of the web? Will they lead you to the promised land of page one on Google? Will they sprinkle your website with fairy dust and make it sparkle? Well, maybe not exactly. But what they will do is work tirelessly to improve your website’s visibility, drive traffic to your site, and ultimately increase your revenue. So sit back, relax, and let your SEO agency work their magic. And if they happen to wave a wand and chant a few spells while they’re at it, bonus points for them!

Well, there you have it – now you know why an SEO agency is the way to go when you’re looking to grow your business online.

We’ve covered all the essentials, from what to look for when making your decision, to what questions you should ask before engaging a provider. Knowing these key points will help ensure that you choose an agency that offers everything your business needs in terms of SEO success. Of course, if you’re in need of specialist local expertise within Auckland then that’s our specialty! Why not take advantage of our free SEO Audit or check out our pricing here – let us show you how we can help lift your business into the stratosphere.