Web & Software Development

Welcome to part 5 of 'Getting Your Business Online.' During the last 10 years, I've tested, installed and used countless content management systems (CMS). I’ve even been involved in the user interface design. Like every product, they all have strengths and weaknesses. The main thing to consider when choosing a content management system is this: "How often will you actually use it to update content?" Now, good SEO practice...

Welcome to Part 4 of ‘Getting Your Business Online’. There are so many options these days when it comes to domain name registration and website hosting. All providers seem to offer 'the world' at very competitive prices. So how do you choose? 1) Home grown is best. Assuming that your business is based in Australia, then: You should register a .com.au domain name Your website should be hosted within Australia Why? Because...

Welcome to Part 3 of ‘Getting Your Business Online’. Choosing the right web designer (or developer) is like buying a new pair of shoes. 1. Do you like them? Initially we are drawn in by the look of a shoe. A website is the same. Do you like the look and feel of a web designer's previous work? 2. Do they fit? Shoes that don’t fit cause blisters! Personality and chemistry are...

Welcome to Part 2 of 'Getting Your Business Online'. As I mentioned in Part 1 of 'Getting Your Business Online' before Christmas, planning is very important. It will help you to accurately assess what you really need. An old carpentry saying sums it up perfectly. "Measure twice and cut once". This comprehensive list of questions will help you "measure" what you need before starting on your website. 1. What...

Welcome to 'Getting Your Business Online'. Over the coming weeks I will provide helpful (jargon-free) advice that will assist business owners who want to set up a website. It's no secret that a website is an essential tool for businesses of any size. Why? Here are a few good reasons: A website provides potential and existing customers with vital information about your business 24/7; A website can generate sales for...

“Return on investment is easy to measure. You put money in, you measure money out, divide and prosper” - Seth Godin, an online strategist. What about return on design? We hope that the money time and creativity gone into our designs yields an investment for our business. It is easy to spend allot of money and time in design but not elevate in benefits the way we...