New Website Design for Beginners

A Comprehensive Guide to Building Your Own Website: From Concept to Launch

Introduction:

In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for individuals and businesses alike. Building a website is a powerful way to establish your identity, showcase your brand, and reach a wider audience. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the essential steps of the website building process, covering everything from initial research and development to privacy considerations and cost analysis.

1. Research and Development: Laying the Foundation

1. Before diving into the website building process, it's crucial to gather the necessary elements that will shape your site. Here are the key components:

• Logo: Your logo is the visual representation of your brand. Create a memorable and impactful logo that reflects your identity.

• Mission Statement: Clearly define the purpose and goals of your website. A well-crafted mission statement will guide your content and resonate with your audience.

• Style Ideas (Colors and Fonts): Choose a cohesive color palette and fonts that align with your brand. Consistency in design enhances user experience and reinforces your brand identity.

It may also be helpful to research competitor sites to build some ideas about structure and functionality for your business. Write those wishlist ideas into your list of style ideas. If it's not an idea that is built-in on your website host's CMS, you may want to consider hiring someone who specifically knows how to implement that functionality in. Sometimes it's available as a plugin, and sometimes you might need to hire a programmer with a more advanced skillset. In general if it is a customization that is less common, it will usually take more time to implement. Be sure to communicate your specific needs for your project with your website designer(s) and let them know what you might be willing to negotiate.

2. Current Rules and Regulations: Navigating Privacy and Security

2. Stay informed about the latest rules governing websites, particularly in terms of privacy and security. Be mindful of what information is private or public, and implement safety measures to prevent spam. Consider the following:

• Privacy Policies: Craft a clear and concise privacy policy that outlines how user data is collected, used, and protected. This builds trust withd your audience and ensures compliance with privacy regulations. (More details will follow later in this article.)

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• Spam Prevention: Implement CAPTCHA or other anti-spam measures to protect your website from unwanted and potentially harmful content. Often if you have a website that allows comments, you will want to implement this to make sure you do not accidentally allow people to post suspicious links and write harmful statements. You may want to hire a website design team that is able to manage your website in addition to building it, if you are not able to manage the spam yourself. Make sure to communicate this need to your website specialist. It may help to have a written document of each task needed to complete and maintain your website, with a list of responsible people for each task.

3. Free Resources for Image Creation or Acquisition: Enhancing Visual Appeal Create visually appealing content for your website without breaking the bank. Utilize these free resources:

• Video & Image Creation Tools: Platforms like Canva, Adobe Express, YouTube, and GIMP offer user-friendly tools for designing graphics and images. It may be important that your company hire a videographer or a video editor to support your business's image especially if you are representing a company that wants to show people how they support their community in the most direct most impactful way possible. You may want to hire a recent graduate from a film school or anyone whose work you admire from a short film festival for instance. Film festivals are a great place to meet filmmakers in person, as often there are Q&As with filmmakers to give you a sense of what it might be like to work with that person. W is for Web's Sandra Cheng is an animation filmmaker who graduated from USC Cinema School. Feel free to look at her demo reel from her youtube channel here.

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• Stock Photo Websites: Access high-quality, royalty-free images from websites like Unsplash, Pexels, and Pixabay. Icons and simplified images for infographics can be found at Noun Project, Flat Icon, and Iconnoir. These libaries might help with brainstorming for logo ideas.

4. Website Costs: Balancing Free and Paid Options Understanding the costs associated with website development is crucial for making informed decisions. Consider the following aspects:

• Free Website vs. Paid Website: Assess the benefits of having a free website versus investing in a paid one. Free platforms may be suitable for personal projects, while paid options offer more customization and control. Be wary of free websites that force you to use advertisements, as often they may make it difficult to navigate your site or distract from your mission.

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• Custom Domains: Investing in a custom domain enhances your brand's professionalism and credibility. Explore domain registration services for the best options. When purchasing a domain, you will always be charged annually for the domain, and most sites will charge anywhere between 1$ up to $30 per year +ICANN fees and taxes as well as extra charges for privacy and website SSL fees.

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• Social Media Integration: Determine whether social media sites will supplement your website or serve as the main platform. Each approach has its benefits, so choose based on your goals and target audience.

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Basic definitions of things you might want or need online for your business:

Understanding content management systems, incorporating newsletters, choosing the right web hosting and domain, and considering the practical aspects of cost will contribute to a successful website-building journey. Whether you opt for a DIY approach or seek professional assistance, these elements play a crucial role in shaping the online presence of your brand or project.

5. Content Management Systems (CMS): Streamlining Website Management

   • Definition: A Content Management System (CMS) is a software application that enables the creation, editing, and management of digital content. Popular free CMS platforms include WordPress, Carrd, Contentful, CraftCMS, Joomla, and Drupal.

   • Benefits: CMS systems simplify website management, allowing users with varying technical skills to update content easily. They offer templates, plugins, and a user-friendly interface, making it efficient to maintain and customize your site.

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6. Newsletters & Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Engaging Your Audience Beyond the Website

   • Definition: Newsletters are regular email updates sent to subscribers, providing them with valuable content, updates, and promotions related to your website or business. Popular free CRM Newsletters include MailChimp, MailerLite, and CleverReach

   • Importance: Newsletters help maintain and strengthen connections with your audience. Use them to share new content, announce product launches, or offer exclusive deals, fostering a loyal community. One of the most valuable reasons to have a CRM is that it will support your ever-changing number of subscribers without you having to be on top of who has unsubscribed or subscribed, automatically updating your contact list to match your community's needs while maintaining integrity.

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7. Web Hosting: Finding a Home for Your Website

   • Definition: Web hosting is a service that allows your website to be accessible on the internet. Hosting providers store your website files, making it available for users to access.

   • Considerations: Choose a reliable hosting provider based on factors like server performance, security features, and customer support. Common hosting options include shared hosting, VPS (Virtual Private Server), and dedicated hosting.

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8. Web Domains: Your Website's Address on the Internet

   • Definition: A web domain is the unique address where users can find your website on the internet. It typically includes your chosen name and a domain extension.

   • Choosing a Domain Extension: Common extensions include .com, .org, .net, .info, and .us. The choice depends on the nature and purpose of your website. For instance, .com is widely used for commercial sites, while .org is often associated with non-profit organizations.

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9. Importance of a Memorable Name: Boosting Brand Recognition

• Ease of Recall: Selecting a name that people can remember easily is crucial for brand recognition and word-of-mouth marketing. Avoid complex or confusing names and aim for simplicity.

• Brand Consistency: Ensure that your domain name aligns with your brand, making it easier for users to associate your website with your products, services, or content.

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10. Cost Considerations: Building vs. Hiring

• Building Your Own Site: If you have the time and inclination to learn, building your own site can be cost-effective. Expenses may include domain registration, hosting fees, and potentially premium themes or plugins. I recommend carrd.co for a completely free one page site with a simple push button experience. For those want a more robust site with more control of SEO functionality, wordpress.org might be a better option.

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• Hiring a Professional: If your budget allows, hiring a professional web developer or designer can save time and ensure a polished result. Costs vary based on the complexity of the project and the expertise of the hired professional. W is for Web is also allots volunteer time for select causes. Feel free to ask if you or your team is a fit for W is for Web.

When considering hiring a website designer, it's essential to ask the right questions to ensure they align with your goals and expectations. Here are twenty questions to help you evaluate a potential website designer:

1. Portfolio Questions:

   • Can you provide examples of websites you've designed in the past?
   • What industries or types of businesses have you worked with?
   • Can you share specific case studies or success stories from your previous projects?
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2. Design Process Questions:

   • What is your typical design process from concept to completion?
   • How do you approach user experience (UX) design to ensure a positive visitor experience?
   • Will I be involved in the design decision-making process, and how?
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3. Technical Expertise Questions:

   • What web design tools and technologies do you specialize in?
   • Are you familiar with responsive design to ensure compatibility across devices?
   • How do you address website performance and loading speed?
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4. Customization and Flexibility Questions:

   • Can you accommodate specific design preferences or branding guidelines?
   • How flexible are you in incorporating changes or revisions during the design process?
   • Do you offer post-launch support for updates or modifications?
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5. SEO and Content Integration Questions:

   • How do you approach search engine optimization (SEO) in your design process?
   • Will the website be designed with SEO best practices in mind?
   • How do you integrate and optimize content for search engines?
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6. Timeline and Project Management Questions:

   • What is the estimated timeline for completing the website design?
   • How do you handle project timelines and deadlines?
   • Will there be regular check-ins or milestones throughout the design process?
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7. Cost and Payment Questions:

   • What is your pricing structure, and what does it include?
   • Are there any additional costs that may arise during the project?
   • What is your preferred method of payment, and what is the payment schedule?
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8. Maintenance and Support Questions:

   • Do you offer ongoing maintenance and support after the website is live?
   • How are updates and security patches handled post-launch?
   • What is your policy regarding potential issues or bugs that may arise?

9. Communication and Collaboration Questions:

   • How do you prefer to communicate with clients during the design process?
   • Are there specific collaboration tools or platforms you use?
   • What information or materials will you need from me to start the project?
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10. Client References and Testimonials:

• Can you provide references from previous clients?
• Do you have testimonials or reviews available for review?
• Have you won any awards or recognitions for your web design work?

Asking these questions will help you gain a deeper understanding of the website designer's expertise, process, and compatibility with your specific needs. It's important to establish clear communication and expectations to ensure a successful collaboration.

Security Considerations

5. Prioritizing website security through the implementation of SSL certificates, understanding the role of ICANN in domain governance, and weighing the cost considerations associated with security measures are crucial steps in building a trustworthy and resilient online presence. These practices not only protect your users but also contribute to the overall success and credibility of your website. A good website designer can walk you through all aspects of website creation, including helping you understand and maintain an effective and easy to understand privacy policy that fits your business or personal domain's needs. While personal or private sites don't necessarily need these, a business may want to hire a lawyer to help write these policies as well, as these policies can help you maintain your company's integrity especially where HIPPA and other rules may impact the confidential nature of you and your client's relationships. Helping your client understand their own rights with regards to dissemination of their private information including what brought them to your site in the first place, any forms filled or contact made to the business via phone or email, will build trust with that client and may make the difference between a client finding and staying with you or deciding that your business may not be a legitimate one.

11. Security Certificates: Safeguarding Your Website

• Importance of Security: In an era where online threats are prevalent, ensuring the security of your website is paramount. A security certificate, often known as an SSL certificate, is a crucial component in protecting user data and building trust.

• SSL (Secure Sockets Layer): SSL is a standard security protocol for establishing an encrypted link between a web server and a browser. This encryption ensures that data transferred between the server and the user remains private and secure.

• Benefits of SSL: Implementing SSL not only enhances security but also boosts your website's credibility. Visitors are more likely to trust and engage with a site that displays "https://" in the URL, indicating a secure connection.

12. ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers): Governing Web Domains

• Definition: ICANN is a nonprofit organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and operational procedures of the internet's domain name system (DNS).

• Role of ICANN: ICANN oversees the distribution of unique IP addresses and domain names, ensuring the stability and security of the internet. It also manages the accreditation of domain registrars.

• Domain Registration and ICANN Compliance: When you register a domain, you enter into an agreement with a domain registrar. This registrar must comply with ICANN regulations, which include maintaining accurate WHOIS information and adhering to other specified guidelines.

13. Ensuring a Secure Connection: SSL Implementation Process

• Obtaining an SSL Certificate: Purchase an SSL certificate from a trusted certificate authority (CA) or, in some cases, obtain a free certificate from services like Let's Encrypt.

• Installation: Once acquired, the SSL certificate needs to be installed on your web server. Many hosting providers offer a straightforward process for this, and some even provide automatic installations.

• Testing and Renewal: After installation, test your website to ensure the SSL certificate is functioning correctly. SSL certificates typically have an expiration date, so be sure to renew them before they expire to maintain a secure connection.

Acquiring a Business Email

You may wonder, why would I pay for an email account when there are so many free ones? In the same vein, why would I want to have my own website instead of writing a blog on wordpress.com or blogger or having a group on Facebook or my favorite social media site? For many people, trusting a business especially after having been the victim of a scam is difficult at best. In other words, because anyone can create a gmail or yahoo account, it may not be wise to be doing business especially business that involves any sort of payment with a simple gmail account. Not all business email accounts are paid accounts. You may want to ask your website designer about helping with setting you up with a free business account or assisting you with finding out about your best options. While free business accounts exist, there are reasons you may want to pay for google business emails, starting with better technical support service when you have issues with your emails and better storage options. If you are a non-profit, you may also qualify for a free business account. Another advantage of a business email is that with most services, including free ones, multiple people can share space on that business's website server using just one account, while allowing each person to have their own individual emails. Zoho for instance allows people to have upto 5 email accounts on one business account, so you could have for instance admin@yourbusiness.com, info@yourbusiness.com, CEO@yourbusiness.com, etc. depending on your needs.

While there is a learning curve to each software platform, you can always ask or hire someone to support you with that. A good website designer can also walk you through any software, but so can anyone who happens to be using that platform. Asking for support might be as simple as asking another business associate or trusted friend for a 15 minute session rather than paying if money is tight. If you have issues with memory, you can always ask if you can record a zoom session. If you need support with that, again a good website designer can help with learning how to record from zoom, or you can contact zoom directly in addition to the many youtube tutorials available to anyone. Most phones also offer video recording capability, and it may be possible to record notes as you like multiple ways. Just keep in mind that you may always want a break about every 20 minutes when learning new software to give yourself a chance to retain the information. As with any new language or skill, you may do best to repeat that mental exercise at least 3-5 times before feeling comfortable with using it. If you need more support with that, you are always able to ask for that support from W is for Web or any other trusted website designer. It's often difficult to ask for help, and W is for Web has experience with working with clients who have emotional and psychological barriers. As a support group leader with experience helping with others with learning new technology, we hope you'll choose W is for Web for your project.

If you are a business, and you're sending emails, you may want to keep a tighter leash on when your recipients actually open your mail, using a free service called an email tracker.  Here's an article about 7 free email trackers which includes some that integrate directly inside of Gmail.

14. The Cost of Security: Balancing Benefits and Budget

• Free vs. Paid SSL Certificates: While there are free SSL certificate options, some websites with specific security needs may opt for paid certificates with additional features and warranty. Evaluate your website's requirements and choose accordingly.

• Factors Influencing Cost: The cost of SSL certificates can vary based on factors like the level of validation (DV, OV, EV), the number of domains covered (single, wildcard, or multi-domain), and the reputation of the certificate authority.

Conclusion:

Building a website is an exciting journey that requires careful planning and consideration. By focusing on research and development, staying informed about rules and regulations, utilizing free resources, and understanding the costs involved, you can create a website that effectively represents your brand and achieves your goals. Whether you're a small business, an individual, or a nonprofit organization, a well-designed website is a powerful tool for connecting with your audience in the digital landscape.