Creating an optimized web presence can seem like a daunting task for some and overwhelming for many.
You are starting a small business, or perhaps you have been in business for years.
If you have been in business there is a good possibility that you had a website created when you opened or maybe you never got around to having a site made.
And if you are just starting out, a web presence is a crucial tool for marketing your business.
Whether your small business is a service or product based business, having an optimized website is a necessity for a successful business today.
optimized past participle, past tense of op·ti·mize (Verb)
Verb
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Your site has...
- user-friendly navigation
- an inviting fresh appearance
- a strong message about your business
- relevant content for your target audience
- updated content and imagery
- social media icons and links to your social media networks
Where should I start? ...this seems overwhelming
Let's start with the basics.
1. Your domain.
A domain is your website's address.
For example: 8 Trees Studio domain is www.8treestudio.com.
2. Your logo.
3. Your color scheme.
The color scheme is also part of the branding for your company. The color scheme can derive from the logo or add contrast to the site/logo.
4. Find a web designer/developer for your website creation.
If your site is for informational presence only, a web designer can usually handle the job. If creating an account for your audience is needed, inventory, and or e-commerce you will want a web developer.
5. Be ready to provide answers to the following questions for the web designer/developer:
- Have you purchased your domain? See #1 above.
- Do you have a hosting platform in place?
- Will you need e-commerce?
- Will you need a database?
- How many pages would you like the site to have?
- For an "informational" web presence it is important to have a home page, an about page and perhaps an additional informational page or two depending on your industry. You will also want to add a contact form for your audience to contact your business. Testimonials are always good for both products and services. And images are key, as you know a picture is worth 1000 words.
- Do you have images for an image gallery?
- Would you like the designer/developer to provide images for your presence?
- Do you have your small business on social networks? Which ones? Would you like to have your small business on social networks if you do not already?
- Where did you get the idea to start this small business?
- What's the story behind the service or product?
- What's your background?
- What motivates you?
- Who is your target audience?
- Who are your competitors?
- What type of message are you conveying to your audience?
Remember when working on optimizing your presence, to keep in mind products and sites that appeal to YOU as a consumer.
Until next time,
Jenn
Millennium Systems offers website services powered by 8 Trees Studio. 8 Trees Studio is available for consultation and optimization needs. 
8 Trees is a web designer / development boutique available for small businesses looking to optimize their existing website or create a new web presence.
Contact us today for a proposal!
909-268-5782
678-861-7418
678-861-7418
info@8treestudio.com
Resources:
graham, shawn. "How To Write Great About Us Content."Creative Combustion Blog. N.p., 10 04 2013. Web. 11 Jul. 2013. <http://shawngraham.me/blog/how-to-write-great-about-us-page-content>.
yola, 04 06 2013. Web. 11 Jul. 2013. <http://www.yola.com/blog/what-makes-a-good-website/>.
N.p., n. d. Web. 11 Jul. 2013. <http://academy.hubspot.com/inbound-marketing-certification/attract/optimize>.
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