Be an Informed Purchaser
Procuring Your First Website? In reviewing proposals and interviewing potential vendors, here's a checklist of issues to ask about. Go . . . |
Be aware that the build process requires a blend of four advanced skills: computer science, graphic design, copywriting and strategic marketing. Look for a builder that strikes a good balance. For the Cliff Notes version of this post, go to our site-procurement checklist.
In helping clients understand what goes into building and launching a website, I break it down into two parts. On the back end there are "get-found services." But first comes the work of simply getting the site up and running.
1. Basic Construction
Is "Hosting" Included?
GBK explained: a computer that stores and organizes all the files for your website.Your first basic need in buying a website is to rent buy or rent a big computer specially configured to upload files to the Internet. These are called "servers." Smaller companies rent server space; big companies own their own hardware. Renting is cheap at around $100 per year. But not all hosting companies are created equal.
Is "Domain Registration" Included?
GBK explained: the unique, proprietary .com/.net address of your home page.To register one costs about $10 a year. Domain names usually riff on company name, but business category can also be the inspiration. A lot of names are going to be already taken. In discussion with your vendor, consider this issue with the utmost care, looking forward into the future. Ideally your vendor will be able to help you out with research into available domains. A competent vendor also will understand that it's critical to register your domain at least two years into the future. Anything less, and the search engines will classify you as a fly-by-night spammer. Longevity of a domain also matters to Google, and so register yours at the earliest possible moment, once you have it picked out. Next page, read more about these matters under "Get-Found Services."
Will "Web Design" Be Truly Customized?
GBK explained: Internet page layout and graphic design.At the low end are cheap, cookie-cutter sites into which you dump your own information; you've probably seen the TV ads. But if you are serious about growing your business, go for a custom look and feel. This requires the services of a talented, creative graphic designer with a versatile grasp of Internet technology. Lots of firms that built their business around graphic design for print have branched out into building websites. They are well worth exploring as an alternative to companies that label themselves as pure "web designers."
Does "Web Design" Include "Content?"
GBK explained: what your site shows and tells through photos, graphics, headlines and body text.Some web designers rely on you to provide the content. Which may work if you employ a marketing director/ manager/coordinator. And yet, many people who hold those titles cannot themselves write or design. Strongly consider having it done professionally, to ensure a classy presentation of your brand image. Can the firm write terse, vivid, imaginative, dynamic copy? Can they whip up powerful, beautiful graphics? Or are they mainly mechanics? Not to create the wrong impression, I love competent mechanics. I just would never hire one to write my resume.
What Does It Mean When Build Prices Are Quoted "Per Page?"
GBK explained: almost anything, so you have to nail it down.Quotes on construction price often will be given on a per-page basis. Problem: There is no standard size for Internet pages. Ask the vendor to be specific. Javelin Communications defines a page as no longer than two screens deep and about 900 pixels wide. Mile-long pages drive me nuts as a user, so I don't inflict that on others.
Is a Good, Reliable "CMS" Included?
GBK explained: user-friendly software for editing, adding and deleting content.It's mandatory that your site includes a content management system – CMS. If you buy an all-custom site, make sure it will have a CMS plugged in. But increasingly, because of the enomous time savings, sites are being built from the ground up with CMS programs. The two biggies are Joomla and Drupal. Elsewhere on this site, read much more about modular web publishing. Also be aware that some CMS products are the invention of sadistic fiends. One I wanted to strangle. If your site will be based on a customized template, allow me to suggest staying away from the more exotic technologies. A "name-brand" template, so to speak, will be able to be easily serviced, updated and repaired by people other than the firm that built the original site. You won't be a hostage for life.
how to buy a website