|
Frequently Asked Questions |
|
What is a URL?“Uniform Resource Locator” It is typically what
one would call an Internet address (for example,
http://www.asyouwishdesignsllc.com), usually consisting of the access
protocol (http), the domain name (www.asyouwishdesignsllc.com),
additional pages or files would follow
(http://www.asyouwishdesignsllc.com/contacts.html). A more technical
definition is: the address that defines the route to a file on an
Internet server (Web server, FTP server, mail server, etc.). URLs are
typed into a Web browser to access Web pages and files, and URLs are
embedded within the pages themselves as hypertext links.
What is a Domain Name?It's
what comes after the "www." It's the unique name that identifies an
internet site. A domain name always has two or more parts separated by
dots and typically consists of some form of an organization's name and
a three letter or more suffix. For example, the domain name for Google
is "google.com"; the United Nations is "un.org."
What is a Hosting Company?Web
hosting companies provide space on a server’s that they own for use by
their clients in addition to providing internet connectivity. The space
is used to store all of the files that make up your website. The
services offered by most hosting companies are shared hosting, reseller
hosting, dedicated servers, or co-location. Shared hosting plans are
typically all that are needed by my clients. These are ideal for
personal, community, and small business websites.
What is a Content Management System (CMS)?A
computer system used to manage and control a large amount of web
material (Web pages and their associated content and images). Some
features include standard visual templates and easily editable content
allowing non-technical individuals to create and edit content.
What is SEO?Search
Engine Optimization is the process of increasing the amount of visitors
to a Web site by ranking high in the search results of a search engine.
The higher a Web site ranks in the results of a search, the greater the
chance that that site will be visited by a user.
How should I choose a Domain Name?Choose
a name that is memorable. Be sure that it is easy to say or spell out
loud. Short is good, but sometimes not right. You want it to be
descriptive of your site / business if using the name of your business
isn't feasible. Supercalifragelisticexpialidocious.com is probably not
a good choice.
Can you register my domain name for me?Yes.
There are many domain registrars on the internet. It’s a very simple
process and I’d be happy to help walk you through it. Plus, it’s
included in all of my web design packages.
Which hosting company should I use?There
are many good hosting companies out there. Things to consider: Is phone
support a necessity? What size of a company would you prefer? Will your
site run on a Unix / Linux or a Windows platform? I like iPower and
GoDaddy, for their breadth of service, reliability, and excellent
customer support. You may prefer a smaller company with a more personal
approach.
How long will it take to get my site on the internet?It
depends on the scope of the project. In general, expect your site to
take 4-6 weeks for completion. Much of this depends on what you want
your site to do for you and / or your customers. Some folks may want a
static site that shows their customers where they are located and how
to contact them. Others may want an e-commerce site complete with a
shopping cart. Other factors include, but are not limited to whether
you have your content such as copy (text), logo, photos, and colors
ready.
How do I get my website listed on search engines like Google and Yahoo!?This
is a complex process and can take quite a long time. Search engines
like Google send out “spiders” across the internet searching for links
to and from sites. The more links your site has to it, the more
noticeable it is to the spiders. The quality of your links are
important.
Why does XYZ Web Design Company charge less / more than As You Wish Designs?There
are thousands "web site designers" available, ranging from
inexperienced teenagers making a few extra bucks, to high-end firms
that charge thousands of dollars. I offer affordable, high-quality
custom web sites for small businesses, not-for-profit organizations,
and families. I have 9 years of experience in web design and am a
proponent of continuing education, so that I may provide you with the
latest and best technology.
Do you offer discounts?Yes.
I offer discounts to some non-profit organizations. Please contact me
for more details and to see if your organization qualifies.
|
