Do you understand why you want to establish a presence on the World Wide Web? Do not do so unless it will increase your sales and profit.
2. Make a plan for the website
Prepare a plan that includes content, top-level page headings and how the pages will link together. This will give a clear picture of how the site will work and be a useful starting point for a web designer, if you use one.
3. Hosting the site
Do you have the capabilities and knowledge to host the site? If not, consider using an Internet Service Provider (ISP), such as BT or AOL.
4. Cost
Have you set a budget for the project? Do some research. A number of web design companies offer a start-up package for smaller businesses.
5. Designing the site
Do you need to appoint a website designer to assist with the web pages or do you have, or wish to learn, the appropriate skills? If you decide to employ a professional, make sure you see examples of sites s/he has constructed. Make sure you like his/her style.
6. Website address
You will have to choose and register your domain name (address of the site). Most businesses select the company's name plus the suffix .co.uk. You can check if your preferred address is available through Nominet (http://www.nic.uk/) for .co.uk names and through Internic (www.internic.net) for .com and .org names. Registration typically costs £10 to £30.
7. Enrol with search engines
Have you enrolled your website with the major search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and AltaVista? There are ways for you to ensure your website appears at, or near, the top of search enquiries. This can be complicated and requires the use of key words and is influenced by the way your website is built. Seek advice from an experienced person.
8. Test the site
Before you launch your site on the World Wide Web, test it and appraise it through the eyes of prospective customers. Get some independent feedback. Ask respected friends to give their opinions.
9. Market the site
Now you have your website, promote it to web users. Include your website address on stationery and business cards and consider sending a letter to your customers letting them know that you have a website. You can advertise your site on search engines and the websites of sympathetic businesses. Don't be shy.
10. Updates
There is nothing worse than an out-of-date website. You, or your web developer, should bring it up to date regularly with news and special offers. Remove old information.
About the Author
Len Collinson has been the FPB's National Chairman since 2002. He is a founder and a director of Collinson Grant Group, the firm of international management consultants, and has investments in three other companies.
