If you don’t already have one you should register your domain name now. A domain name is the name you give your site. It sometimes can be difficult to get your first choice so you may need to be creative. There is an annual fee for registering a domain name. Even if you’re not ready to build your site you should get your domain name now!

2. Website Hosting

You will need to sign up for an account with a web hosting company so that your website has a home. A web host is where your web pages will be housed and everyone in the world will be able to connect to and view them. If you already know of special requirements for your site, be sure the hosting company you choose can accommodate them.

3. Content

No matter how great your site looks, it will not be successful on the web without good content. It’s important that your content draws in customers with intelligent and easy to read text, as well as easy to follow navigation. You’ll want to include subject appropriate graphics and photos. If you don’t have photos of your own available check out some of the stock photo sites (i.e. www.istockphoto.com) for photos and illustrations.

Your customers, and potential customers, are using the internet at home, school and work. If you don’t have a website or you have a poorly designed website, you are missing a valuable way of communicating with people who are searching for information about your products and services.

Your Competition is Online

Your competitors are online aggressively promoting their websites as a resource in their industry. They are putting their Web address in print, television, radio and newspaper advertising as well as on business cards, letterhead, printed brochures and handouts.

Your Information is Always Available

Your website is always on and available to anyone looking for information about your products or services. Visitors can find the information they need when they need it without additional mailing costs, personnel to answer a phone or voice mail messages to be returned.

Websites Save You Money

Online information can greatly reduce printing and mailing costs. Information that you now distribute via handouts, brochures and newsletters is readily available online, avoiding print distribution costs.

So, what are you waiting for?