Sep
24
Written by:
Project Complete
9/24/2009 3:46 PM
In the course of several recent conversations, various questions have surfaced regarding the creation or re-creation of websites. So it seemed best to use them as content this week in order to benefit the vast audience that read my blog. The following are a few questions that you may have asked yourself, as well as some (hopefully intelligent) responses that will be meaningful to you. So, just in case you've been wondering:
I already have my domain name; do I have to get a new one?
No. Whether you have the domain name or not doesn't matter. Your new website and your domain name (URL) can be linked by your web designer.
Can I use my current website hosting service?
Maybe, maybe not. If your website will be using a content management system (recommended — see my blog of 9/18/09) there are specific requirements that the hosting company must be able to provide, so check with your website designer. Your web designer knows which hosting companies provide the best service, which is invaluable when you want your website to be there every time you or your customers access the site.
I don't exactly hate my current website; it does have some content I like. Can I use them on the new website you create for me?
Of course! Any and all of your content can be used for your new site. You want a new look to your site? No problem. Just let your web designer know what you want to include. It's a good idea to keep your website looking fresh, so take a close look at it to see if there are ways to "spiff" it up a notch.
How do I get started with my new website?
It's always a good idea before beginning any project to plan it, so we would recommend using a website planner. The planner will direct your thinking about several aspects of your website including who your audience will be, the functions of your website, colors you may want to use, other websites you've seen that you like, and other important areas you'll want to address.
How long does it take to build a website?
Well now, that all depends on a lot of things; mostly, how much of it is already done? Do you have the content, the photos, the ideas all in a folder on your desktop just waiting for the perfect web designer to come along? Call me immediately! We can get you up and running in no time at all. What usually takes the most time is the planning, as I mentioned above. Once that's accomplished, plugging in the content is a piece of cake. A complex website certainly can take longer than a simple "brochure" website. Although it's not an accurate estimate, it could take several weeks or several months. We could give you a better idea after we know exactly what your needs are.
Is there a monthly fee after the website is done?
The first 30 days after we "go live" with your site, minor changes are free. Some website designers will charge monthly maintenance fees, however, we only charge for the time it takes to make changes to your site as the need arises. If it appears you'll be needing lots of changes, we do offer maintenance programs at various levels, which can minimize your ongoing maintenance costs.
These are just a few questions we've addressed lately. If you have others you've been thinking about, or want to explore creating a website or giving your current site a new and exciting look, I welcome your questions. Contact me, and we can talk websites.