We have seen an increase in the number of websites since the past couple of years. Significantly after the initial dot com burst. While this is good news, it sure reflects one single point. The Internet is as serious as in the offline community. While most people think that by setting up their website they have all they wanted, it sure is a misconception. Below are some pointers to keep in mind.
1. Do you really need a website?
Whether you are a CEO of a company or someone who wants to set up their hobby on the Internet, the first question you need to ask yourself is "Do you really need a website?" While this may be flexible in the second case, for most business, both big and small this is one important question before you take that leap.
Remember, the Internet is an extension of the offline medium, which allows us a more specialized interaction with customers and clients. Hence, due care has to be given while setting up a website. The best way to begin would be to start by researching into your competitors and the markets on the Internet. While you might be enjoying a huge market share of selling gypsy items across the store nearby, there might be 3 other similar sites providing the same service. Remember, you have one huge market and lots of competitors.
2. The right plan
After the initial ground work comes the next question of choosing the right plan. While web hosting prices have fallen sharply, there has also been an increase in fraud as well. It does not require a genius to set up a webspace. So be careful before choosing your host. Another point to note is that most people fall for the 1GB web space. Now, for a 10 page website with a little bit of e-commerce, do you really think you need 1GB space? Its like buying a palatial bunglow at a throw away price, while the resident is just one person.
3. Design aspects & features
The popular misconception is that having a website will automatically increase your sales. It's actually contrary. Due time and effort has to be spent while designing your website. The site does not have to be rich in media. Stick to the plain simple basics and you will be safe. Instead of spending time and effort on getting a rich media website, try to distribute it across. What I mean by this is to have a website with other features that will add value.
A) Mailing List or Newsletter: Have a mailing list so that you can encourage people to sign up and send them promotions, etc. In the present day, the words mailing list or newsletter evokes just one response, SPAM. Assure your customers/visitors that you would not spam. Let them know the duration of the newsletters you would be sending, and most important, "DONT SELL the email addresses"
B) Refer-A-Friend: This requires just 10 minutes of your time, but is sure a helpful tool. When you have a site that is pleasing to look at, people sure would want their friends to check it out as well. By having this tool, you will be sure that in that particular moment of excitment, people will use this tool and send it across to their friends.
C) Guest Book: This feature might not be that helpful for a business site, but for individuals or small home business, it is a handy feature to get your visitors feedback.
4. Site promotion
For the major part of the netizens, web designing is phase 1 and site promotion is phase 2. Well, instead of having the two of these done independantly, it would be sensible to work with both the aspects in mind. It would save you a lot of money and time in the long run. Ensure that your site is optimized at the design phase itself. Test the site with various tools that are available on the Internet. (I will not speak much about this as I have a seperate article coming up)
5. Site maintenance
After all the hard work, it is sad to note that most websites are not up-to-date. Ensure that your site is in sync with the present so that the visitors will have something new everytime they visit your site.
Conclusion: Setting up your online presence is easier said than done. If due planning is not given importance, be sure that the website will not last for more than a year, being optimistic. A little effort and some time to think is all you need to get a site that can sure be a shot in the arm for your offline business.
About the Author
John Benjamin is the CEO of ProMinds Inc. An Internet Marketing agency. Having 2 years of experience in SEO and online marketing.
ProMinds Inc
http://www.promindsinc.com
Other information can be found at http://www.promindsinc.com/bb/ a forum for newbies.