If you have a new business you have most likely been asked whether you have a website and some may not know what exactly a website is and the importance of having one as a business owner.
In this guide, we look at what exactly a website is, the basic steps of setting a website up, and the many benefits a website could have for your business.
What Is A Website?
A website is an online platform where there is a collection of publicly accessible information and interlinked web pages all under a domain name, which is the name of the website, for example, Google.
The first website was created by Time Berners-Lee in 1990 and in 1993 access to the world wide web was given to the population of the world for free.
A website can be created by an individual, a group of people, or an organization with the intent of creating it to serve a specific purpose.
For example, if you have a restaurant you may create a webpage so potential customers can access your menu and opening times.
A website can also be referred to as a web presence or simply a site. There are no set rules as to a format that all websites need to follow and so all websites are wonderfully unique.
For the most part, a website will have a homepage which is the main hub where you can find links to web pages linked to the website. Each webpage is an HTML document connected by hyperlinks.
On each page, there will be a navigation bar or drop-down menu which enables you to progress through the website to find the information you are looking for.
Another common feature is a footer which often has links to main pages on the website and contact information related to the website and links to other vital information such as the website’s privacy policy, terms of service, and any necessary disclaimers.
Websites are said to be hosted on a specific server, these servers require a web browser, such as Chrome, Firefox, or Internet Explorer which allows the website to be accessed on a computer or mobile device.
To find a website through a server you would search the domain name, the name of the site. Alternatively, you can input the website URL into the search bar at the top of the browser and this will go directly to the site.
Types Of Websites
There are three main types of websites, we explain these briefly below.
Small Websites
Small websites are perfect for anyone who wants to simply have an online portfolio or resume.
Usually, such websites would have several pages with an about us page, a contact us page, and possible reviews too.
Some small businesses that can put all the information they want on their website on a single webpage will choose a smaller website.
These websites don’t require much upkeep and serve the purpose of providing information.
Blogs
If you like writing and think having written content would be beneficial to your webpage then a blog-based website would be perfect for you.
Blogs do require more work but there is also the possibility of monetization which can bring extra revenue into your business.
Large Business-Focused Websites
This type of website is a huge part of a business and usually, they operate as an online store. Without this type of website a business wouldn’t exist, that is how integral it is to the business’s operations.
It’s important to consider what type of website would be best for you.
How To Set Up A Website
In recent years creating websites has become more accessible to people who have never made one before through platforms such as WordPress, GoDaddy, and Wix.
These platforms enable anyone to create, manage, and update their website without the need for professionals, which is particularly beneficial to small businesses that may not have the funds to get a website designer at the early stages of the business’s life.
The website creation process can be as simple or complex as you wish but it is possible to create one without any, or limited technical knowledge.
There are five steps that most website creation projects go through, these are:
- Create a plan for the structure and content you want on the website
- Register your domain name, most end with .com
- Choose a website builder that you can easily use to create your site
- Optimize your website for search engines to that it comes up on a search result page
- Final checks before launching your website
Benefits Of Having A Website
Visibility
Having a website can help make you or your business more visible as people will find your website through searches on search engines.
That is why it is important that your website is reflective of you or your brand so that people can see what you are about looking at your website.
Accessibility
Websites are accessible 24/7 and so there is no need to have staff working at all times to answer questions as the website serves this purpose.
Always ensure that you have information on your website up to date.
Credibility
Most people will look up a business or individual nowadays to check them out.
If one business has a website and one business doesn’t it is likely that the business with a website would get more business as it looks more credible due to its online presence.
Wider Audience
Regardless of where you are based in the world, people across the globe can access your website which can be particularly powerful if you are selling a product.
Marketing Tool
A website is also a great marketing tool as you can use it to market yourself or your company, and run campaigns, and advertisements.
Final Thoughts
From reading this piece you should have a basic understanding of what a website is and what your next steps could be if you decide that having a website would be a great benefit to you or your business.
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