Planning Your Web Site:

Keys to planning a successful web site include:

• Define the goals of your site

  • Who are you trying to reach?

  • What message are you trying to send?

  • What is your budget for the site development?

  • What is your budget for site maintenance?
    

• Develop the actual content of the web site

  • What does your site need to say?

  • What images are needed to clarify or enhance your text?

  • Is your site content clear, informative, and current?

  • What would compel visitors to return to your site?

  • How much do you need to say about your company?

  • What marketing materials do you already have that can be used?
    

• Decide on the actual layout of the web site

  • How many pages are needed?

  • What would each page include?

  • How do you want the information to flow?

  • What sort of a look do you envision for your site?
    

• Reserve your unique domain name

  • Is your company name available?

  • Is your web site name easy to remember?

  • Can  your customers find you?
    

Budget your web site Can your web site be set up in phases if your budget is limited? What information is the most important right now? What information can be added later? Will stock graphics work for now? Do you want to invest in original graphics for your site? Set up your e-commerce site (online store) Do you have products to sell online? Are you set up to take credit cards? How many products do you have to sell? Do you need a picture with your item descriptions? Market  your web site How are you going to let your customers know you have a site? How are you going to attract new customers to your site? Is your URL (Universal Resource Locator), the address which directs people to your site, included on your brochures, business cards, etc.? How can you use search engines to your best advantage?