Web design

Why do you need a website?

A website can serve many different purposes. Companies may simply desire an online presence - you won't show up in any search results unless you have a website! On the other hand companies with an actual physical product may want an online brochure for customers to browse, or take a more proactive approach and directly sell their products to consumers. Photographers and artists may desire a place to showcase and sell their portfolio. A family may want a place where they can exchange news and photographs with distant members. A homeowner might want a virtual walkthrough of their house in order to promote its sale. There are virtually no limits - anything you want to publicly display can benefit from a website.

What you need to do:

Prepare some text to go on your website. Generally this will include a description of your business (or whatever the purpose of website is), contact information, and a catalog or brochure. You may also wish to include price lists, product specifications, photo galleries, a discussion forum, download areas, client testimonials, or anything else you desire. Contact me if you need a template of suggested information.

Things you need to consider:

• What domain name do you want? (e.g. www.yourcompanyname.co.uk) Keep in mind that some domain names are already taken, so think of a few alternatives.
• How large will your site be? For example if you have a large product catalog how many items should be displayed on each page?
• Will there be any large downloads such as music or video available?
• Are there any parts of the website you will want to update frequently?
• Do you have any photographs you wish to include? If so how many? (this refers to digital photographs - if you have paper photographs I can arrange scanning). You should be aware that, as a general rule of thumb, higher-quality photographs translate to a higher-quality website.
• Do you already have a website you wish to overhaul? If so you will also need to supply me with copies of all the initial paperwork supplied by the hosting company (including your login ID, password, and the hosting company's server address). If you no longer have these documents you will need to inform the hosting company in writing (with a copy to me) that I am authorised to contact them on your behalf.

Ready to proceed?

If you have made all the necessary decisions and have your material ready for the internet, contact me and we can get started!