How to Get Your Business Online

You have decided your business needs a web site. Considering the Internet has reached a pivotal stage where users can find distinct, definable areas, now is a great time to go online. In NetSmart's recent report, "What Makes People Click," 63% of those surveyed report visiting the Internet to seek specific information about goods and services. Eighty-one percent report using the Net to research major purchase decisions. Thirty-seven percent purchased products online; 46% bought at retail stores. While an Internet presence can cost you time and money, it can also make you money. Before you put your business online, consider:

1. The objectives of your Internet presence should mirror your organization's overall objectives. Who are your audiences and what is your message to each? Will your site's design and content help you reach your goals?
2. Locate your web site where your customers and prospects are.
3. Consider image and return on investment when you choose your site's location. Is it important to you to be located in a well-marketed space that allows you to keep up with the latest web marketing techniques and technological advances?
4. Define ways to measure the success of your site before you go online. Will the Internet allow you to service and sell to existing customers more effectively? Can you avoid time-consuming, "false" leads by publishing detailed information about your company online?

Next, decide whether to build your own site or contract out the design and construction. If your web site will be simple, perhaps a single home page with some text and your logo, you could probably handle the design and programming yourself with web authoring software -- provided you have the patience and interest to learn. You must also decide whether you will host your own site or contract with a web hosting company.

For more complex sites, including databases, audio or video, you should consider outsourcing construction. Visit sites the firm has created, get references and stick with a company that understands your industry. Don't assume that your web designer can handle all aspects of building your site. You may need to assemble your own team, including an Internet marketing expert, a designer and a programmer.

Finally, you must let people know you're online by getting your site's name listed in online directories. An easy way to put your site's name on a variety of directories is to fill out the proper forms at http://submit- it.permalink.com/submit-it/. You should also promote your site to existing and potential customers through conventional marketing methods.

Building Your Own Web Site

Hiring Others to Build Your Site

Hosting Your Site

If you contract out your site's hosting to either an Internet Service Provider (ISP) or a property (such as a mall, directory or online magazine), you will likely be charged for a set-up fee, rent, space and traffic. Plan on spending around $3,000 or more per year for hosting. Space is usually limited to a fixed amount with extra costs for additional space. Traffic can be limited to a certain number of "hits" or visits, depending upon the number of files downloaded from your site. Graphically rich sites require more files. There can be fees to update content as well.

To find a hosting service, look for sites on the web that appeal to you and could attract your customers and prospects. Determine which services will market your business well and which draw significant numbers of users to the property and its businesses.

Whether you have your own web site or simply surf the Internet, you should invest in an anti-virus software package that will scan your computer for any viruses that could threaten or destroy your files. Also, consider purchasing a back-up system that creates a separate, storable copy of your computer's contents, in case your system breaks down.

Creating your web site takes time, but it is only part of the job. The rest involves developing a strategy, working with the right mix of talent and promotion, choosing a good location and responding to online inquiries.

Getting your business online with low cost

Don't think about hacking or cracking. Just simply use sites like e-bay or amazon.com to sell your products. That is a very alternative especially for small companies. There are individuals selling, selling, selling as a powerseller.

Amazon.com

A simple, direct and profitable way to sell your items on Amazon.com,
the world's leading online retailer. Amazon Advantage is a powerful way for authors,
publishers, labels, and studios of all sizes to promote and sell their items on 
Amazon.com.

ebay.com