Ravenworks deals with clients that are new to websites as well as clients that need assistance with an existing website. This post is for those that are considering owning a website and feel that they are lost in the technical side of the thing!

• 1. “Do You Need A Website?” – Of course only you can answer that question but here are some things to think about to help you decide:

• Do you provide a service or product?
• Are you interested in providing your service or product beyond your immediate area?
• Would a full-color brochure of your service or product be advantageous?
If your answer is “YES” to any of these few basic concepts then you should consider creatng a website.

• 2. “What do I need to have a website?” – Whether or not you create your website yourself or have a professional create it for you, there are some things that are required:

• You will need to register your “Domain Name” with a certified Domain Name Registrar. Your Domain Name is the name of your website. (This website’s Domain Name is TheRavenworks.net). There are many valid domain name registrars, a cost is involved and the registration is purchased by the single year or multiple years. [NOTE – See this link for more detailed info on DOMAIN NAMES]
• You will need a “Website Host”. This is an organization that physically “hosts” your website files on their computers (called “Servers”) so that people can access your website.
{NOTE – See this link for more detailed info on WEBSITE HOST]
• And finally… you will need to have somebody build & maintain the website for you OR…acquire the software to build it yourself.

That’s pretty much all you need to get started!

I have written a short piece on “Website Basics” to help you understand some of the basics in website creation. You may view this article on this website HERE.

And… if you are not sure if you even need a web site?
You may want to read this article.
ELECTRONIC BROCHURES (Web Sites) V/S PRINTED BROCHURES
[I wrote this from my experience in both the print design and web design industries.]

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or would like to discuss a website for you.