Starting With Just The Basics
...
Domain Name:
You've got to choose a domain name that does two
things. First, it should be easy to remember. Second,
it should include one or more of the key words
people might use to look for your site.
You don't actually own a domain name, but you
pay for the privilege of using it on an annual
basis, with fees ranging from $16-$35 or more per
year.
» Learn
more: Domain Names
Web Site Design:
Usually a one-time amount to construct your site. You
may redesign or add extra features over time, but
the web design investment is your launching point. The
more you know about what you want, the better your
web site will be. The cost of a web site
is completely driven by the content and features,
so have a budget in mind before you begin.
Be sure your design firm understands your expectations,
and that contracted deliverables are clear. Most
design firms require a down payment before work
begins, and the balance of payment before your
site is published. GetNetSmartSM does
not quote rates without understanding your project.
Web Site Hosting:
Think of it as renting an apartment where your
web site will live. Hosting is a monthly
expense, which may be billed quarterly or annually.
Hosting rates depend on the level of services you
need, how busy your site is, and whether you need
special features like a Secure Server Certificate
or database interface.
You should insist on a hosting provider with 99+%
uptime, redundant connections to the Internet,
live online statistics, and 24/7 staffing. If
you're on a shared server, ask how many other web
sites are competing for server resources.
GetNetSmartSM clients
share dedicated servers located in a secure, 10,000-square-foot
data center. Monthly hosting rates range from $30
to $150+ per month, depending on your needs. Our
business clients typically invest $49-119 per month
in a hosting package that includes POP3 Email,
live statistics, daily web site and database backup
service, monthly search engine submission and visibility
reports.
» Learn
more: Hosting
Web Site Maintenance:
You've got that great web site out there, but
it needs to be changed or updated... what do you
do? If you're like most people, you've already
got a full-time job!
Web site files are written in several programming
languages, from simple HTML to complex programming
languages. Most sites include graphics and
web pages built in two or more software programs. Ever "lose
a file" on your personal computer"? If you choose
to do it yourself, invest in training so you understand
the data management as well as how web site pages
are constructed and appear in different browsers.
Many firms simply contract with professionals
to take care of web site maintenance and updates
as needed. Most firms charge an hourly rate
for their services, and usually have a minimum
service charge and bill in 10- or 15-minute increments. Hourly
rates in Southwest Florida range from a low of "my
kid's friend does it for free" to over $100 per
hour for some types of programming. When
it comes to cheap web work, you almost always get
what you pay for.
» Learn
more: Site Update Services
Search Engine Positioning / Web Site Promotion
The first step to promoting your web site is to
be sure it's built in a way that allows it to rank
well with search engines and directories, and makes
it easy for users to get what they need. If
the technical, textual and graphical aspects of
your site are correct, then 70% of the job is done.
GetNetSmartSM offers
search engine and directory submission services
with quarterly reporting, and consults on pay per
click and link development options that drive business
to your site. With our proactive web site
design and management, we work with our premium
clients to optimize web sites over time and develop
exactly what your visitors are looking for.
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