Why Most Websites Fail (and How to Prevent It)

In this article, I will deconstruct the exact reasons why so many websites fail and, most importantly, how to avoid these traps.

Mistake #1: Building a site without a clear strategy

The problem

Too many people think a website is just a collection of pretty and well-coded pages. In reality, a site is a tool. A good site serves a clear purpose: selling, converting, informing, retaining...

The problem is that many sites are created without strategic vision. The result? A site that floats aimlessly, with no impact and no engaged users.

The solution

Even before writing a line of code or choosing a design, ask yourself these questions:

• What is the main objective of the site? (Sell a product, generate leads, create a community, etc.)

• Who is it for? (Personas, needs, expectations)

• What is the differentiating factor? (Why would people choose this site over another?)

A good website solves a specific problem for a specific audience.

Mistake #2: A design that is too aesthetic but ineffective

The problem

We've all seen those ultra-stylized sites with animations everywhere... but impossible to navigate. Too often, designers sacrifice usability for aesthetics.

A beautiful site is great. But a functional site that guides users where they need to go is even better.

The solution

When you build a site:

• Prioritize clarity: A visitor should understand in 5 seconds where they are and what they need to do.

• Optimize the user experience (UX): Smooth navigation, readable contrasts, visible CTAs.

• Test, test, test: Have real users test the site and address the blocking points.

💡 Concrete example: Amazon has never had the most beautiful site in the world. But it is ultra-efficient and effectively guides visitors towards making a purchase.

Mistake #3: No traffic = no results

The problem

Even the most beautiful site in the world is useless if it has no visitors. Too many projects invest everything in site development but nothing in traffic acquisition.

The solution

A site doesn't live on its own. It needs to be integrated into a marketing ecosystem. Here are 3 essential pillars:
SEO: Technical structure, optimized content, quality backlinks.
Content: Blog articles, guides, videos that provide real value.
Acquisition strategy: Social media, advertising, newsletters, collaborations.

Concrete example: An e-commerce site without SEO and without Google Ads is like a store in the back of an alley with no sign. No one will find it.

Mistake #4: A slow site = fleeing users

The problem

If your site takes more than 3 seconds to load, you're losing more than 50% of visitors. A slow site results in a high bounce rate, a poor user experience, and poor Google ranking.

The solution

• Optimize images: No 5 MB images covering the entire page.

• Use good hosting: A good server makes all the difference.

• Avoid unnecessary code: Too many plugins, too much JavaScript, too much of everything.

Concrete example: Google has proven that an additional second of loading time can reduce conversions by 20%. That hurts.

Mistake #5: Not analyzing and adapting

The problem

Many launch a site and... abandon it. They don't track performance, don't fix anything, don't test anything.

A website is like a business: it evolves based on feedback and analysis.

The solution

• Install Google Analytics & Search Console: Look at where your visitors come from, which pages perform well, and which need improvement.

• Analyze user behavior: With tools like Hotjar or Microsoft Clarity.

• Test and adjust continuously: Experiment with different layouts, offers, and messages.

Concrete example: A simple change of text on a button can double conversions.

Conclusion: A good website is a thoughtfully designed site

Websites that fail are often those that:

• Don't have a clear strategy

• Prioritize design over UX

• Don't generate traffic

• Are slow and frustrating

• Are never analyzed or improved

If you want a site that works, treat it as a living project, not just an online business card.

Ask yourself the right questions, invest in optimization and acquisition, and your site will be much more than just a website: it will be a true growth engine.