June 4, 2024

Why Design Matters to Governments

The debate around spending taxpayer money on branding is ongoing, but in a life where we all associate brands with trust, fun, and loyalty - would you want your level of local government to fall behind?

Local government logos for municipal websites

The discussion on whether to spend taxpayer money on branding is ongoing. In a world where we all trust, enjoy, and stay loyal to brands, should local government be left behind? 

Dieter Rahm, a German industrial designer and academic explained good design as: “...innovative, aesthetic, unobtrusive, honest, long-lasting, thorough to the last detail, environmentally friendly, and involves as little design as possible.”

Design, like beauty and taste, varies depending on communities, traditions, cultures, history, and preferences.

Government design, whether local or national, is crucial. Local government website design reflects the values of the region and visually represents its brand identity. 

The debate around spending taxpayer money on branding is ongoing, but in a life where we all associate brands with trust, fun, and loyalty - would you want your level of local government to fall behind? Let’s unpack why are government websites so bad?

Town Web, with 15 years of experience in government website design, knows all the ins and outs of governmental branding and design. With over 800 municipalities, in 42 states across the US, it’s not difficult to see that we get it right.

Town Web specializes in government website design with unlimited tech support (yes, you heard right!). Our white-glove service and affordable hosting make it possible for local government staff to do what they do best - serve their community! The websites are designed to be easy to use for government staff and residents and it comes with a website butler.

Governmental branding involves using colors associated with the community, county, or nation, along with a slogan or values summary. Essentially, branding represents the identity of an entity or organization, whether it's a business or a local government. The design creates a direct link between the brand and its services. For example, consider the impact of a well-known symbol like a big yellow M - instantly recognizable with clear expectations.

The ongoing debate on whether taxpayer money should be used for branding initiatives raises questions about the importance of keeping up in a world where brands symbolize trust, enjoyment, and loyalty. Do you wish for your local government to remain relevant in this regard? 

Or, you would rather keep asking yourself why are government websites so bad?

Upgrade your local government's digital platform with a Town Web website tailored to meet your unique needs, such as:

Take advantage of our design team's expertise to enhance your government’s branding. We create custom logos that reflect your town's values and character, perfect for your website, social media, and printed materials like letterheads, business cards, and office decals.

And the best part? You can opt for a custom logo whenever you’re ready. Our team will work closely with you to ensure the design captures your city's essence, traditions, and key messages.

Elevate your online presence and strengthen your city’s identity with Town Web, so that you never have to ask why are government websites so bad?

Here's an example of a custom logo designed for a local municipality:


Branding and design are tricky, at the best of times, but especially when taking into consideration the longevity it should exhibit while capturing the essence of a village, town or city. Town Web makes this an easy and stress-free process.

Contact us now to find out more.

Town Web services are approved for use with ARPA funds!