Are you familiar with basic programming language like HTML and Javascript? Not all website software requires that you be familiar with these protocols, but it certainly helps. Many web-hosting companies now offer free software to help you design your site, as well as technical support to help you through it, but in truth, many of these web-hosting companies offer only the basics - no fancy graphics, no video integration, etc.
A website that provides entertainment typically isn’t sales driven, meaning it is meant to amuse and entertain without being directly linked to a product or service. An example of such a website would include a movie review website, or a joke-of-the-day site. Personal websites, such as one you put up yourself with your life story or family history on it could be categorized as either entertainment or informational in nature.
Not every website needs a custom logo, or flash components or video presentations - it’s much more important to have a professional appearance and functionality. If your customers can’t find your order page, are unable to tell what inventory or products you have for sale - you have a serious problem, and your e-commerce dreams are likely to be unfulfilled.
Whether you are in the process of setting up a simple personal website that outlines your family history, or a more complex website that offers hundreds or even thousands of products, web design is a critical component of style, presentation and effective marketing.
Who you’re trying to target as an audience or customers can frequently determine the look and feel of your website design. For example, if you’re attempting to sell Barbie® dolls, you may consider that your audience is girls ranging in age from 8 to 12, so your website should include graphics and colors that appeal to that specific age group - some cool music and bright neon colors might be appropriate in this case..
An investment business, on the other hand, wouldn’t be advised to use hot pink colors and teeny-bopper music on their site - investors are looking for brokers who are serious about handling and investing money. A more sober and somber look to this website would be in keeping with the functionality of the site.
How fast technology changes! Twenty years ago the Internet was an infant struggling for recognition and acceptance - in today’s world it’s difficult to imagine how we survived without it. The Internet has forever changed the way businesses operate, made personal communication instantaneous, and truly opened up world markets.
Once you’ve established the purpose and functionality of your website, it’s time to ask yourself more questions. Who is your target audience? Are you setting up a website to sell Barbie® dolls? Or trying to develop online sales for an investment business?