Your domain name is how people will find you on the web. Here are some tips on how to choose a domain name:

• Keep it short.
• Keep it simple.
• Make it unique. (This prevents people from accidentally going to another popular site.)
• Make it easy to remember.
• Always choose the "Dot Com" version if available. (Dot Org for non-profits.)

 

The web hosting company is the provider that will hold all your files on a server and connect you directly to the Internet. Avoid web hosting companies that say they are free. Most free web host will impose advertising on your site. While that may be fine for a personal site, it gives a bad impression for a professional business. Here are some more things to look for in a web hosting company:

• The hosting company should have a "network uptime" of at least 99%.
• You should take into account the support they provide.
• The should offer: FTP, PHP, MySQL, Perl, email accounts, SSI, SSL, .htaccess, telnet, SSH, & MySQL
• The amount of disk space that is offered should be considered.
• Price is a consideration when choosing a web hosting company, but it should not be the final determination. Always compare apples to apples and oranges to oranges.
• If you are unsure of a web hosting company to choose, we recommend HostMonster.

Just about every web hosting provider offers a free domain name when you sign up with their service. Although it may be tempting, it is wise to keep the two separate and purchase your domain name from a Domain Registrars such as GoDaddy. That way if something goes wrong with your web hosting provider, you still have your domain(s) intact and in good shape with your registrar.

Gather your content before the web designing phase occurs. Having your text and images ready will greatly speed up the time it takes to finish your website. Even if you don't have the images, knowing what text you want included in your website will make the process go along smoothly.

Make sure the lines of communication are open between you and the designer.