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Are you ready to establish a web presence for your organization
or business, but are overwhelmed by what appears to be a complex
process and considerable expense? Establishing a web presence
need not be confusing if you follow these four steps:
1. Website Name Registration
Choose a name that best represents your business
or organization. While a short, concise name is generally preferred,
sometimes a longer name may be remembered by potential users
and thus be a better choice. www.danvillesoccer.com is not the
shortest name possible for the Danville Soccer Club website
but it clearly describes the type of site and is easy for the
user to remember. When selecting names, come up with several
alternatives because your first choice may not be available.
Stick with either a .com or .org extension. Most other extensions
will not be remembered by your users. Even if you are not quite
ready to develop a website, consider purchasing your desired
name, if available, since the cost is limited and the name may
not be available in the future. The annual fee to maintain your
name is $35.
eDanvilleOnline.com to register your domain name.
2. Website Design
The cost to develop a website can vary dramatically. Cost is
affected by many factors including the amount of content and
the complexity of the site. However, a simple one page site
that is essentially an online flyer can be created for as little
as $250. If you are unsure how a website will help your business
and your budget is limited, start with a simple site with several
pages. This will limit your investment while letting you get
a feel for how this site will enhance your business. You can
always expand your website at a later date. Do not allow yourself
to be pushed into starting with an elaborate site. Remember,
a website should enhance your business and improve the bottom
line like any other investment.
eDanvilleOnline.com for a website quotation.
3. Website Hosting
Your website can be hosted on one of many reliable servers
throughout the country including several local companies. Keep
in mind that the location of your web server is insignificant
to the user. While hosting fees vary depending upon the client
needs, a simple website that is essentially
an online brochure should cost
no more than $12 per month.
eDanvilleOnline.com for a recommendation for a reliable server.
4. Website Maintenance
Maintenance fees will vary depending upon the number and type
of changes. Before hiring a web designer, be sure the maintenance
fees are detailed up front. Some designers charge a low design
fee but pad their maintenance fees. A simple online brochure
that does not require many changes should have limited ongoing
maintenance fees. If you are capable of doing routine maintenance,
consider having the designer review your site quarterly or semi-annually
to be sure the site maintains the appearance initially created.
eDanvilleOnline.com for a quotation to maintain or update your
existing website.
Following these steps will allow your business or organization
to establish a presence on the World Wide Web.
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