Website Basics: What you need to get started

You need four things to be on your way to a functioning website:

  • a few ideas about what you want your domain name to be
  • a place where your website will live
  • a design concept
  • content, content, content

Domain name

A domain name is what is used to identify your organization on the web. For example, our domain name is stellaritsolutions.com. If you are lucky, the domain name you want will be available. It is a good idea to have a second, third or even fourth choice in mind because many names have already been registered. These days, registering your domain name is a fairly simple process that you can do yourself (we use namecheap.com) or your website maintainer can take care of this chore for you.

Webserver

Before people can view your website, the pages and other accompanying files must be loaded onto a webserver. You may have a computer in your office with 24x7 internet access and webserver software or you can rent space from a hosting provider for as little as $5/month. Either way, this is not as difficult as it used to be and your website maintainer should be able to help you in either scenario.

It is important to select a hosting service that provides features and services meeting the needs of your website. Don't rush out and select a hosting service until you have decided who will manage your website; you should seek their guidance on any technical requirements your website might have. It is not really important where your hosting service is physically located and often it is not best to select hosting services that come bundled with some other service, such as your ISP, your email account or your domain registrar.

Design

You should also have a fairly good idea of what you want your website to look like. Even if that is just some example websites you have come across which have given you ideas about features, colors and layout that you like or do not like. Your web designer will then define the scope and requirements of your website and help you, through several design iterations, narrow in on a final visual, functional and navigable website design.

Content

But the most important part of your website is the content. That is why web visitors will be viewing your website in the first place and also why they will return in the future.

When all these pieces are put together, your website is ready to be launched and start conveying your organization's message.

The design of your website will be your largest initial financial outlay. The cost will vary depending on the scope, features and functions required. When selecting a company to do this, find someone who will give you a detailed estimate so you fully understand what you are getting for your money and always ask for references.