Webnames.ca StaffDo you think you’re ready to take the leap and bring your business online? Building a new website can seem like a daunting task. Between content, pictures, design, logos; all the while having to worry about things like SEO (Search Engine Optimization) and Social Media, it can all be overwhelming. There are several steps you can take to help you better prepare for the experience and make it a bit less frightening.
Find the right domain name
First, check to see if the domain name you want to use is available. Having the perfect domain name for your website is very important as it gives you your online identity and it should not be overlooked. Check to see if your desired domain name is available, and register it right away. You will also need hosting which you can register at the same time. Hosting is often included when you sign on to work with a web developer, however finding the best package for your needs is important as you may need multiple mailboxes, online streaming, blog capabilities etc. Webnames.ca has some great new plans available and you will get your domain FOR FREE. Know what your needs are to ensure you pick the right hosting plan. Take a look at Webnames Hosting Plans.
What is the purpose of your website?
You should have a clear idea of what your website will be used for, and what your visitors want from your website. Knowing your target market and how to meet their needs will help you choose the overall look and feel of your website.
Get an idea of what key components you want on your website (home page, about page, blog etc.). You will also need to consider things like eCommerce (will your visitors be purchasing from your site? If the answer is yes, how will you collect the funds?) Your decisions are not set in stone, but it is important to have somewhere to begin.
What is your budget?
This is an important one, as this will help to determine what kind of features you can have on your website. The more complex you want your website to be, the more time it will take the developer and this will lead to an increase in price. You may need to be flexible either with your website or with your budget to get exactly what you want, so keep that in mind.
Content, Content, Content!
If you want to have more than blank space on your website, you need to write some content. This is a huge portion of your website, and not something to be overlooked. You know your business better than anyone else and you need to supply your web developer with the content, don’t expect that they will create it for you.Your content is also very important as it affects your Search Engine rankings. If you want to be found online, you want to be aware of the keywords that visitors will be using in an effort to find your business. Read more about SEO.
Images
Pictures are a huge part of making your website stand out. Ensuring your graphics are appropriate and communicate the concept of your company, service or product cannot be ignored. Do you already have photos ready to use for your website? Do you need to have professional photographs taken? Or are you planning to pay for stock images? Consider all your options and choose the best photos to better represent your online image and identity.
Who will design your website?
There are many design firms and freelance Web designers out there who can help you create your website. It is sometimes hard to tell one from the other and making the right decision can be a challenge.
A Freelance Web Designer/Developer
– May be more cost effective than a big design firm.
– May not have all of the resources needed for larger projects and continuity in relationship (if they move or go out of business) can be an issue.
A Professional Design Firm
– Often provides the most comprehensive set of skills, resources and services.
– Usually the most expensive option.
Make sure you take these items in to consideration before you get started on your new website. Although there are a lot of items to be aware of, choosing the right web designer to help walk you through it all can make all the difference.
Ready to start the Process?
Get the best of both worlds with a professional website at a great price! Webnames.ca has two comprehensive packages, FastTrack (starting at just $499) and Essentials ($1895) that will set you up with a great looking WordPress based website.
Learn more about FastTrack and Essentials, and see which one is best for your business website.
Choosing Webnames.ca, you always know you are getting the highest level of service and the ease of knowing the job is being done right.