Standing out amidst the billions of websites can become a tedious task, even when you’re competing locally. It’s because regardless of your niche, hundreds of websites offer the same things. If your website isn’t unique and memorable, people usually won’t stay.
Don’t feel hopeless yet.
With this guide, you’ll know what makes a good website. That way, you’ll learn how to web design or at least get professionals to do it for you. Read on and find out more:
1. A Good Domain Name
Your domain name also works are your website address, making it the entry point to your site. You must ensure that it makes a good impression on both usability and search engine optimization (SEO). That means employing several tactics, such as:
Make It Easy to Spell and Keep It Short
To ensure your website domain name is easy to spell, you must avoid using slang and esoteric words. It also means staying away from words not in the dictionary, except when it’s your business name. Regardless, keep the address short since it’s easier for customers to remember and type without errors.
Also, always remember to consider names with meaning. Avoid nonsensical names since this makes it more difficult for users to know what your business is all about. You can only do this if you have the budget necessary for an extensive brand campaign.
Use the Right Domain Extension and Avoid Numbers
Always opt to use the .com domain name extension instead of .net or anything else. The only exception is when you’re using another extension appropriate for your organization. For example, if you’re an educational institution, you must use the .edu extension to signify it.
No matter what domain name you use, do your best to avoid hyphens and numbers. It’s because they’re hard to remember and carry less elegance compared to domains exclusively with words. This also makes it likely for them to misunderstand your website when they vocalize it.
Ensure It’s Memorable and Broaden It for Future Growth
Again, the sheer number of websites on the internet makes it a necessity to get a catchy website name. That way, people will remember it the next time they plan to visit. This also means making ensuring your domain name lines up with your brand identity and prepare for its future growth.
For example, you might be selling books for now as an online store. It’s tempting to use domain names related to books. But in the future, you might end up selling more types of goods, so use your brand name instead of doubling down your current niche.
Research Your Desired Domain Name
A quick Google search will reveal whether your desired address already exists. Aside from exact matches, you must also avoid getting similar addresses. That way, people won’t think your website is fraudulent or a subsidiary of the other domain.
You must also check for registered trademarks and remove them whenever possible. This is a great way of avoiding grief later on.
2. Buy a Secure, Scalable Website Hosting
What is website hosting? A web host is a company providing both technology and services allowing websites to be on the internet. Your domain name goes with your hosting provider, showing it to visitors as they use your website address.
Take note, hosting services cost between $2 and over $100 each month. This depends on the type of technology and the support they give. Most providers give discounts when you buy an annual plan instead of a monthly one.
Here are some things you must know on how to host a web site:
Dedicated Servers
This is the most expensive type of web hosting since it can range between $100 and $2,000 each month. The tradeoff is that it makes your website perform at its most optimal. With a dedicated server plan, it means you have a server machine solely for your website’s use.
That means all its resources are yours while ensuring its security compared to shared hosting plans. This is often outside your desired budget unless you’re already an established enterprise. It’s an overkill if you’re a startup business since you unlikely have the resources to pay for this.
Virtual Private Servers (VPS)
This web hosting service is a compromise since it cost ranges from $20 to $50 each month. A VPS is a single machine divided to act like multiple ones. The good news is that it offers performance and security comparable to dedicated server hosting plans.
Shared Servers
These are the cheapest among the hosting plans because it can be as low as $2. It’s not the ideal plan since it means you’re sharing server resources with other websites. This makes your website performance and security worse.
3. Display Your Business Clearly
People must know your company’s identity and function without delay. This prevents them from becoming confused. That’s why you must maintain your website’s homepage banner and ensure that all banners remain consistent with your service representation.
Also, you must put an introductory text blurb located at the top of the page. This is for describing who you are and what your business does. Also, ensure that all main and navigation menus link easily to your “About Us” page.
The accessibility ensures that people can easily click them. With that, your visitors become more encouraged to read about your business. This allows them to get more invested with your company, making it likelier for them to become loyal customers.
Are you confused about web design and web development? If so, check out our guide and learn the differences between the two.
Learn What Makes an Amazing Website Today!
What makes a good website? You need to start with a good domain name, an easy to navigate and scale design, and it should clearly display your brand. Use these tips to ensure that your online presence improves the longer you stay on the internet.
Do you need help with your website? If so, contact us today and let us help.
