When was the last time you had your website redesigned? For a lot of companies, a website can be an afterthought – something you think that you don't need to do any work to keep it up once you've gotten it live. Your website, however, is like any other piece of marketing material that you use. Every so often you need to take an objective look at it and ask yourself if it is time for a redesign, to update the message that you're sending out to current and potential clients.

As a general rule of thumb, websites should be redesigned every three years. Both design trends and web technology grow and change so quickly on the web that by the time three years have passed, your website is starting to look and act dated. A little freshening up of your website design could be what is standing between you and the ability to really connect with your users.

Here are five reasons that you may want to look at a potential website redesign:

You've rebranded your company

Whether it evolves slowly over time, or whether you suddenly change the branding of your company, you may want to consider redesigning your website. Your website is a part of the marketing message that you put out to potential clients, so should be cohesive with your other marketing materials. Your designer can work with you to ensure your redesigned website is reflective of your new brand.