You have a successful business. Why bother with a web site? What will a presence on the net do for you? Every business, small or large, should consider a web site.

The Internet is the first place people will look for information. Millions of people rely on the Internet search engines rather than directory information or phone books. In point of fact, the Yellow Pages are now online. It cannot be denied that the Internet has truly revolutionized business and business promotion.

Normally, the worst reason for doing anything is "because everyone else is". However, taking your business online is now not just a luxury, but a necessity. With the Internet being the number one source for information, it is very important to have an online presence. It gives visibility and creditability to you and your business.

Today, an important part of business promotion is being found in the major search engines. As more and more people join the online world, they expect legitimate businesses to have an Internet presence. If you are not there, you have lost that customer.

A web site is for your potential client, your repeat business and an inexpensive way to communicate with your current clients. Your client may want to know your location, your fax number or your email address. They may need to know about parking, transit or handicap accessibility. A potential client may want to read about your services. They may want to do some comparative shopping before contacting you or making a commitment. Most importantly, they want to do it in the privacy of their own homes, on their own terms, and they want that information NOW.

For whatever reason your client uses your web site, it is imperative that he obtain the information when he wants it, not 9-5 Monday to Friday. With a web site you can provide personalized service to your clients with answers to questions 24 hours a day, everyday, all without answering the phone or hiring additional staff. Less time is spent explaining products or service details.

With an e-mail link, people can contact you anytime it is convenient for them and you can respond anytime that is convenient for you. Your client's have a sense of security knowing that you are available 24 hours a day.

1. Development

Consider how much money you spend each year on advertising. People may see your advertisement one time and then discard the paper (or pen or notepad or fridge magnet). A web site is always there - solid. If you receive one additional client due to your web site, you have recovered your investment.

Making changes is a simple and inexpensive process. If you have produced "paper" brochures, you know how difficult and expensive it is to change them.

Most professional web design firms charge around $250 to $500 per page for a basic page. If you wish to simply have an information web site (similar to detailed brochures) containing some company information, product information, telephone numbers etc. the costs are considerably less.

2. Maintenance

Maintaining the site, making minor adjustments, adding or removing text, updating news bulletins, or changing fee structures is relatively easy. The average web developer's cost is $40.00 to $60.00 per hour.

3. Hosting Services

There are thousands of web host companies to choose from. Supply, demand, and competition benefits the user. The monthly cost for hosting is usually under $15.00 and some are free. The disadvantage with free sites is that the advertising will "popup" or take a priority position on your page. A small site can get adequate hosting for $5.00 or less.

Many hosts offer 'site builders' or 'templates' making it even easier to have a page up and running in a matter of hours. Using the site builders will not cost you the designing fees and there is no additional cost from your host company. Your web designer can work with them to ensure that your site is as unique as your business.

More information about Templates.