Want to Build Website? But Don’t Know How to Get Started? Learn In 3 Easy Steps!

The world is changing. More and more people, now, are searching the internet before deciding where and what to buy. Your online identity is fast replacing your company brochure and business card. Have you already started thinking about creating a website for your business? But, is the thought of getting started on one seems daunting? You are not alone. But the good news is you can get through it in just 3 easy steps. Here’s how:

Step 1: Register your domain name

First and foremost, register your domain name – the most important part of a website. Choose a domain name that describes your product or service. If you are a local business, consider mentioning the name of the city in your domain name. It is important to ensure that the domain extension you choose is recognized locally and globally.  .com and .net are leading examples of recognized, credible domain extensions that have been global online standards for the past two decades.¹ With over 130 million .com/.net domains in the world today², there is an enormous number of businesses and consumers that trust .com & .net worldwide.

Step 2: Look for a web developer

The next step, after finalizing your domain name, is to start work on your website. This part can be outsourced to a web developer who can build website to reflect your brand messaging. Here are a few simple ways to begin your search:

1. A simple Google search can list down hundreds of developers in your city.
2. Alternatively, a quick search on popular online directories and listing sites may also be a good way to find numerous web developers working in your city.
3. Moreover, your business partners, peers, or other professional acquaintances may give you relevant references of web developers along with some useful first-hand feedback.

There are no standard rate cards in the market for websites. A website may cost you anything from a nominal Rs. 300 per month to as much as Rs. 100,000 per year. Don’t lose heart if you hear an exorbitant rate that is beyond your budget. You will find better alternatives that suit your budget if you look hard enough.

 Step 3: Assess the developer carefully

Once you have a pool of potential candidates from your search in step 2, assess each one of them thoroughly so that you can pick the developer that’s right for you. Here’s how:

1. Reference Check: Look at the agency’s previous work, verify their credentials using reference checks. A quick chat with their existing or past clients may help you understand the capabilities of the vendor. Ask your potential web developer relevant questions. For example, does he/she have the experience to develop a website with responsive design, or to configure e-commerce capabilities, or has he/she developed a website for a similar business before? With a clear idea of your broad objectives in mind, look for an agency that fits the bill.

2. Scalability: A small or medium business may become a mega sized business in future. As the business grows, the website may need more sections, visual effects or content. Whether it is synchronization with the hosting service provider, transferring from one host to another, or accommodating the feedback of various stakeholders, the website should be able to adapt to the evolving needs of the business. A web developer who has the capabilities to handle the growing or changing needs of your website can be an ideal long term partner for your business.

3. After sales service: There is nothing worse than working with a vendor who does not respond to your calls/emails or does not have appropriate answers to your queries/concerns. Once live, the website may run into technical glitches. Check if the developer has a fully functional team for SoS response, troubleshooting, and continuous communication with the clients. If that is in order, chances are you will not be stranded in case of a breakdown.

But the first simple step before all of the above is to register a good domain name. There is a .com registered every second.³ What are you waiting for? Register yours today!

Attributed to Mr Sanjay Bhatia, FICCI CSMME, President