It can be quite tough to create your own custom website. However, if you know the basics about building a custom website, things will become much easier for you. You can either get it done by a web developer or try doing it yourself. Whatever you decide on, here are our top 10 tips to help you build the perfect custom website.
- Determine the website’s purpose
From the beginning you should know the reason why you want to build your custom website. Your website can be about your services and simply use a static layout, or it can have regularly updated articles to help your customers and prospective clients stay up to date with you. There has been a lot of buzz about inbound content marketing recently, so you can even create a blog that attracts new visitors to your website. You can even integrate social media marketing to your website. Some people also want to start an eCommerce business. Whatever it may be, it is your plan that will ultimately determine the purpose of your website.
- Think of a catchy domain name
Your domain name has a great influence on your visitors. Make sure it is short yet interesting. It should reflect the purpose of your website.
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Get a web content management software
Choose a web content management software (CMS) that matches the purpose of your website. You can choose between open source or a premium services. eCommerce business owners should go for software that is particularly designed for eCommerce. For people who carry out small-scale eCommerce, free or cost-effective add-ons accompanied by a free content management software system like Joomla! and WordPress are good options.
- Joomla!
Joomla! is a flexible content management software. It’s free but has certain limitations for website development. You can easily get a template of your choice from their template library. They also have several add-ons that enhance your website functionality. Joomla! allows for quick changes too, as well as being easy to set up and install. However, it can be time consuming if it’s your first time using something like this and you may need a web developer to help you.
- WordPress
WordPress’ design resembles a blog. It is easy to use and just like Joomla!, it offers you a set of templates with different plugins. If you want advanced functionality, a web developer would be able to help you out.
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Select the right web host
After you have zeroed in on which content management software you want, you should choose a web host that holds your website and its associated software. Your web host should allow for the speed of your website and the number of visitors you are likely to have. Companies can choose a less costly and less powerful shared hosting service that can be upgraded as the business grows. Also, you should keep in mind that your host should offer easy installation of the CMS. The most commonly used hosting services allow this in a single click. If you are not getting the help of a web developer and working alone, you can always get assistance from the host’s support services.
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Pick a website builder
Many drag and drop website builders are available that help you to avoid those programming and coding hassles. Choose the one that matches your needs. Some populare website builders are:
- Wix
- Squarespace
- Weebly
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Think about a suitable template
The CMS has numerous templates to choose from. According to your business and industry, you can create the visual appeal you want for your website. You can use a generic looking template or a themed template that matches your brand.
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Add plugins to your website
Additional plugins for SEO, social media and other website functionalities should be included on your website. There are even paid plugins that can make your website navigation easier for the visitors. Plugins allow you to create a portfolio of photographs, setup a podcast, or add videos on the website.
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Structure your website
The overall organization of your website should be determined. You should figure out the placement of your logo, the navigation bar, the menu selections and where you want your content to be placed on different web pages. Make sure your website looks clean and doesn’t overwhelm your visitors. Apex Global Solutions can be of great help to you if you are looking for someone to help you with organizing your website.
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Create engaging content
If you want to keep the visitors on your website and convert them into leads or customers, content is most crucial part. Your articles and blog posts should be helpful to the customers and be valuable for them. Engage them with your website and prevent them from going to your competitor. Use images, subheadings and other forms of visual marketing to make the information easy to consume. Your website should be professional enough to leave a lasting impact on the reader. Also, your physical address and contact information should be visibly present on your website.
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Regularly update your website
Continue to add new content, web pages, modules, plugins and blog entries on your website. The control panel in your software packages allow you to retrieve your content and resources. You can manage your website features through this.
Wrap Up
Do you want an amazing custom website and use it to increase your business? Follow these tips and get ready to get more visitors and generate more revenue. If you need any help, Apex Global Solutions has a team of expert developers that are here to serve you!