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Taking your site to the forefront of the Web!
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Your Own Place on the Internet - Website
101
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Part TWO
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Choosing who will build the site and what it will contain
One hopes that the choice of who will build the site is already a given, but there are advantages to shopping around for prices and timeframes. Key to this is to make certain that price comparisons are apples to apples. Be very specific in what a site will contain and do, how many pages, forms, graphics, e-mail addresses, etc. If you want a more complex site, for instance one with animations or changing pictures, then that is also key to stress up front. The simpler the site the cheaper it can be made, as a rule. If you will be seeking frequent updates, for instance of a calendar of events, then mention that up front.
What a site contains is somewhat dependent upon each case, however there are some basics that should be present. These include clear explanation of who you are and what you offer, hours and dates of operation, contact information including e-mail, telephone, and address, and of course highlights of what you wish to promote. If you have a certain color scheme associated with your business, or a logo, be sure to mention and provide these. Other common inclusions are directions and perhaps a map to locate you, a feedback form or e-mail registration, and references or associations that promote your enterprise in a positive manner.
Remember that YOU should choose what is on a site, while taking feedback and suggestions from the designer. A lot of text is not a good idea, and too many graphics can make a given Webpage take a long time for your customers to load. Balance and simplicity are key. A common look across each page of your site is also the easiest for your users, especially with a menu on each page; no one likes having to back up before they can get to another portion of the site. If you wish to conduct business transactions such as sales or donations, transfer of credit card or other secure information online, this must be made clear from the start.
How long it takes to get a site actually out on the Internet is dependent upon a number of things, including the site's complexity, the creator's business load and time they can devote to your project, and the time it takes to establish your domain name and tie it to your choice of hosting companies. It is always best to discuss this factor up front so that expectations are clear.
| Part THREE |