Getting Started...

Before work can begin on your website, you need to purchase both a domain name and hosting provider. I recommend GoDaddy.com. GoDaddy has a variety of options available for purchase including security certificates. Databases are usually provided with the basic hosting plan. I recommend a two year hosting plan. This gives you a discounted rate with GoDaddy as well.

Step-by-step instructions for registering with GoDaddy.com. These presume this is your first web site account without a previous domain name, and that money will not be directly transacted thru your website:

1. Once at http://www.godaddy.com, click on the drop down menu that says "Hosting & Servers," click on "Web Site Hosting."
2. Select "Linux" rather than "Windows."
3. In most cases, you will choose the "Economy Plan."
4. Choose the length of domain hosting that suits you. I recommend a minimum of 2 years for the first purchase.
5. Add to cart.
6. In most cases, scroll to the bottom of the next page and click on "Continue."
7. The next page will be your "Secure checkout."
8. Enter your domain name into the field called "Add a domain name to my order."
9. Click on "go."
10. If available, click on "Continue." Otherwise, try again for a name. I recommend ".com" for most sites.
11. Select if you wish "auto-renewal" to protect expiration of your web site, or for more control, choose "manual." Auto will bill your card when it's due.
12. Register your domain for the same length of time as you have selected web hosting.
13. Make other decisions as you see fit at this point then continue.
14. Your total will be around $90 if for two years. This includes hosting and domain name registration. You MUST have purchased both in order for your website to go on the internet.

  Once you have purchased your domain and hosting plan, please select a username and password. Then, I will take it from there and get everything set up online.

Next Steps...

Browse the web for sites that are similar to your product. Record the URLs of the sites you most like as well as what specifically you like about them - is it the artwork, color scheme, usability?

Think about what it is you want your web site to do. Do you want it to sell a product, be informational, or display your work?

Once you have completed these steps, then you and I will work together to get an understanding of what you want. I will begin storyboarding some ideas and share with you my recommendations. The process will be very interactive, at the same time should allow you to trust my experience and expertise while you take care of other things in your life.