Building a website and deploying it online is not always easy, especially when one is a complete novice. It would help if you got it right because it will be online to the public once you get it up.
Here are some simple steps you wish you had known to get your project up and running.
Step 1: Put Your Ideas Together
Having a clear idea of what to achieve is necessary for the success of building a website; it is worth investing your time and putting things together before anything is done. However, most people consider this phase a waste of time; it is always the most delicate and essential aspect when planning to embark on such a project.
Below are some questions you could ask yourself before you proceed:
- Why do I want to create a website?
- What benefit will this site bring to my business?
- What budget can I afford?
- Will I have the time to provide rich content for my site regularly?
- Do I have the skills to launch alone?
- Should I outsource the creation of the website?
Step 2: Set a Budget
As an entrepreneur, creating a website will require you to set up a business plan, no matter the size of the site. It is better to map out the budget you want to allocate to your website while you further break it down subsequently.
Here is an outline of how to get your budget listed.
- Website creation costs (Development)
- Web hosting Cost (Monthly or Annual fees).
- Maintenance and update costs (if you go through a web agency or S.E.O firm).
- S.E.O costs (if you go through a web agency or S.E.O firm).
- Costs of promotion of your website.
Step 3: Find and Choose a Domain Name
The domain name is the Internet address that users will type to reach your site; therefore, it is essential to get a proper name. Though often difficult for newbies to decide what name to choose, you could use these tips to get a desirable character.
- Choose a name aligned to your niche.
- Use a Maximum of 3 short words.
- Choose a name that portrays what you intend to use your site for.
Step 4: Building Your Website
If you are a beginner, it is often advised to undergo basic training to understand the Internet language better and the possibilities offered. Once the training is completed, you can choose the method you want to use to create your website.
To get good web designers, you could quickly check online local directories where users can call for simple and agile services they need daily. For optimum results, search for developers locally using precise terms like web design in San Diego if you live in the San Diego area.
These web designers offer different site models and a quote. Prices vary widely depending on the type of sites to create and the individual requirements.
But if you choose to do it yourself, here are some tips you could use.
- Create a readable and compelling website.
- Use simple graphics.
- Save the homepage as “index.html”; the server will first know which page to open.
- Avoid empty pages or under construction.
- No need to make an introductory page and animation.
- Do not overload the pages with colors, patterns, and music.
- Do not use too large images; this will slow down your site.
STEP 5: Choose a Web Host
Once your sites have been created, it is time for your website to be accessible to all users. Therefore, you must place the files of your website pages on a server. The role of a web host is quite simple; it must implement all necessary means to ensure that your website is available all day long in optimal navigation conditions.
The choice of web hosting company must be based on your criteria (budget, memory, and type of site). To make your choice, you can review a comparative list of the best web host company online.
Take time to compare different offers. The host’s reliability and age, the quality of proposed tools and services, pricing, and customer service should be the subject of your attention.
STEP 6: Market Your Site On The Internet
After creating the site itself, one of the essential tasks is its inclusion on search engines and online directories because there is no point in building a website if you do not have visitors.
Therefore, you could use social media platforms to ensure your site reaches your target audience.
These tips are not exhaustive; getting a website created and deployed online is easy if you have the budget, an idea of what you need, and the driving force.
