This section contains questions and concerns frequently expressed by our clients. In our ongoing effort to provide superior and personable customer service, we have developed this easy-to-use section to at least answer your basic questions. If you have a question that is not answered here, please feel free to Contact Us.
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Please select a category below to reveal related questions and answers.
- Getting
Started - General
- Domain
Name - Web
Design - E-commerce
- Internet
Marketing - Email
Marketing - SEO
- Content
Management - Custom
Applications - Hosting
- Security
Getting started is easy. You can request a quote using the form to the right, or use our contact form. We will be glad to meet with you or speak to you on the phone about your project. Before meeting, it is a good idea to have at least a general layout of your project. This will give us a better idea of what solution is right for you. The best method is to just take down some notes or construct a general outline.
Many people get overwhelmed by the prospect of developing a website. Especially those who have little knowledge of computers in general, let alone the Internet.
The following are some basic elements and information you will need:
- What do you want your site to do? Do you want to sell, just provide some basic information, etc.
- Who is your audience? Who do you want to attract to your website.
- Logo. If you have an established business, chances are you have an electronic version of you logo. This is helpful to a web designer.
- What information do you want on your site? Store hours, profile, photos, video? Remember, content is everything. Content should be abundant, but to the point.
- Your site visitors. What information do you want to collect from visitors to make your site better? A website can be a very valuable tool in identifying your customers and their needs.
- Research. Find other sites like yours and see what the popular ones are doing to attract visitors. This is also good for design ideas.
Organizing your content can be the most frustrating part of planning your site. However, do not get frustrated, just try to layout the general structure of the site. The better your site is laid out, the more time your visitors will stay on your site.
Here are a few tips on how to organize your content:
- Decide what information and content you want on your site.
- Divide all of your information and content into categories. For example, decide if the the content goes on the "About Us" page, etc.
Domain Name
Your domain name is basically the centerpiece of your site since it is the first thing most users see, especially if your site is commercial. When deciding on a domain name, keep your central theme in mind. Although many other extensions are available, .us, .biz, .me, etc., we still feel that .com is the gold standard. However, its extremely difficult to secure a premium .com name due to all of the domain resellers buying them up. If you are already in business, it can be harder to select a domain because you are limited by your existing name. If you are a start-up business and have not yet selected a name, it is much easier since you can select from available domains.
The best advice we can give when selecting a domain is to keep it simple. Try to stay away from domain names that will confuse your target audience. A relevant domain can also help with organic search engine placement. See Also: Other Services - Domain Name Selection
"What do I do after my site is designed and on the Internet?"
One of the biggest misconceptions is that just because they have a website, that it can be found. The next major step is marketing, even for basic sites with a few pages. More than likely, you had your site built so that a certain group of people, or demographic, can find it. The trick is to help that group find your site. Your site must be optimized for search engines.
The subject of search engine optimization is too vast for this section, but is vital to your marketing strategy. Your specific marketing strategy will depend mostly on your particular business model. Are you strictly web based? Are you a brick and mortar business and just using you site to compliment your existing advertising? Everyone's situation is different and that will determine your strategy.See "SEO" section
"How do I keep my content updated?"
Fresh and relevant content is a major key to the success of your site. Search engines constantly look for fresh and relevant content. In addition, your visitors will keep coming back for fresh content. There are basically two methods of updating your site, either you web designer can do it for you, or you can use a Content Management System (CMS).
A CMS provides the site owner with a login system and access to a web interface. This is usually done through your Internet browser. You can then edit parts or all of your website, such as images, text, etc. Webcore Interactive provides custom CMS to suit each client's needs. Many web development companies provide a "one size fits all" CMS solution. We realize that client needs are unique, so we build your site around your business. See "Content Management" section.
Great question. Some programs advertise "Build your site in 5 minutes!" And, unfortunately, the final product looks like it was built in 5 minutes. Serious business owners cherish their business image and recognize that a professionally designed website is essential to their business. A lot goes into building a successful website. Today, your website is the first impression made to your customers. Research shows that within 5 seconds site visitors evaluate the design of your website and will make a decision whether to stay or leave. Success cannot be built in 5 minutes.
How much do you charge?
Our fees vary with each project. Every client has different goals which will require different featues. Our hosting, email marketing, and support plans are the only services in which we offer fixed prices. We are a custom development company and not an "overnight" discount website service. Many companies claim to build your site in a day or two and accomplish this by using boilerplate templates for every client. We do not run specials, but feel that our prices are extremely competitive and lower that the larger firms, often by thousands of dollars!
Why are your fees so much lower than Huge Web Design Company?
This is our favorite question of all time, and the answer is simple. Large web development firms overcharge in order to cover their overhead and operating costs - it's that simple. You are just absorbing their cost, which is one of the best kept secrets in web design. We have the same equipment, same software, and same skill sets. Just because Huge Web Design Company has a big fancy building does not make them better web developers. Keeping operating costs low is one of our main priorities so that we can PASS THE SAVINGS TO OUR CUSTOMERS!
What sets your company apart from others?
Besides our ultra competitive prices, we offer a personalized service. Our business model is built around customization, and an integral part of that is getting to know the client and their needs. Our low operating costs allow up more time to cater to the client instead of worrying about huge overhead costs. We refuse to allow operating costs to dictate how we do business.
My last web developer left me high and dry. Can you pick up where they left off?
This is one of the most common questions we run across and the answer varies with each situation. Often, it is hard to go in and use someone else's code. Most of the time, it is better to only reuse parts of the project, such as graphics and text, and start from scratch. This way, we are sure that the project is developed properly using our code. In addition, future updates or changes can be implemented more easily since we will be familiar with the setup. However, it is possible to use existing code if a client has a large amount of capital already invested in a project. We must evaluate each situation on a case by case basis through our consulting service.
Do you provide support after the project is completed ?
Yes. We offer various support plans depending on the type of service or solution, and every project is different, as we are a custom web solution provider.
A domain name is the unique address of your web site, such as www.your-website-name.com.
How do I get a domain name?
There are many domain name companies, or registrars, on the web. You pay these companies a yearly fee, usually around $10/year, to "reserve" your domain name. You will then be given an account that you can login to and manage your domain name. You can buy as many domain names as you want.
How much are domain names?
Domain names range from as low as $10 to $30. We recommend GoDaddy for low prices, customer support, and advanced domain management features. They also offer bulk discount prices, a domain club, and an extensive network for selling prime domain names.
How do I choose a reputable domain registration company?
Choosing a reputable domain registration company is the same as with any other business. There are many great companies out there, but Webcore recommends GoDaddy at this point. Their prices are among the lowest, they have great bulk domain management services, and numerous add on features to enhance the integrity or your site. In addition, GoDaddy has above average support and are available 24/7 with reps that specialize in each area.
What's the deal with .com, .net, .biz, and so on?
We admit that "domain extensions" have gotten a little out of hand. Basically it' a marketing ploy. Currently there are several popular extensions such as .com, .net, .org, .biz, .tv, .me, .us, .info, among others. The most popular, or course, is .com, followed by .net. .Org is typically used by non-profits and other similar organizations. All of the other extensions are personal preference. Despite predictions that other extensions would take over the popularity of .com, we feel .com is here to stay. It's the Coca-Cola of domain name extensions.
With all of that being said, we do recommend that clients at least purchase the .com and .net versions of their domain name if available. This ensures that no one else can "hijack" your domain name, at least the popular versions. If your budget allows, we recommend buying all of the available extensions for your domain name and even all variations of the name.
I already have a domain name. Now what?
If just have a domain name or have an existing web site, we simply change the settings to "point" to your new site once it is completed. If you don't have a web site, we can create a temporary page notifying visitors that your site is being developed and will be completed soon, along with your contact information.
Can Webcore help me choose a domain name?
Absolutely. Webcore will assist you in selecting a domain name that is catchy, easy to remember, and reflects the nature and image of your business. We provide many additional services that assist you from start to finish.
Every clients needs are different from the next. It would be difficult to establish a set price for every project. We provide detailed quotes for every project once we have met with the client, and assessed their needs and goals. This way, clients are charged more accurately.
Many companies advertise a low price on their website, only to reveal later that many costly additional services are needed. Webcore provides top-quality, professional solutions for any size business.
E-commerce is the method of selling products or services via the Internet. "Virtual stores" allow you to browse product categories, details, etc. Most modern day online businesses also incorporate a method to directly purchase products from their site and have the itme shipped to you.
How is an e-commerce web site different from a regular web site?
E-commerce sites are much more involved that regular, or "informational" web sites. E-commerce sites involve a content management system that helps your manage products, a merchant provider for order processing, security certificates, and more. Please see our E-COMMERCE HOME PAGE for more information. If you need complete information about an e-commerce site, please contact Webcore.
Why don't you list prices for your e-commerce solution?
Every clients needs are different from the next. It would be difficult to establish a set price for every project. We provide detailed quotes for every project once we have met with the client, and assessed their needs and goals. This way, clients are charged more accurately.
Many companies advertise a low price on their website, only to reveal later that many costly additional services are needed. Webcore provides top-quality, professional solutions for any size business.
Internet Marketing is identifying your target audience and utilizing various methods to reach that audience with information about your web site, message, products, etc. Effective maketing strategies will attract relevant visitors to your site, keep them engaged, and ultimately convert them into members or repeat customers if you are selling products. This is what makes a successful web site.
How do i get started with Internet Marketing?
The first step is rather easy. You need to identify:
- Determine what your site is about.
- Determine what you want your site to do.
- Identify your audience/customer.
- Establish your budget.
These four things are critical to starting any successful Internet marketing strategy. The rest is a very involved process, too vast to cover in this section. Please visit the INTERNET MARKETING HOME PAGE for more information. Contact Webcore for complete information and to get started.
Email Marketing is the process of sending targeted emails promoting your products or services to customers or prospective customers. The recipients are typically users who have signed up on your site, current customers, or emails you have collected from a trade show, etc.
How do I get started?
Getting started is easy. Follow the steps below:
- Sign up for a Webcore Email Campaign account.
- Select the plan that is right for you and complete the checkout process using our secure site.
- A Webcore team member will contact you to assist with setup of your account and your marketing goals and strategies.
YOU'LL BE SENDING FULL-SCALE EMAIL CAMPAIGNS IN NO TIME!
How do I get my emails to match the look of my web site?
Webcore can design you a prefessional looking email template that exactly fits the look of your website to maintain brand continuity. Emails should be as lightweight as possible for maximum deliverability. Webcore will design your email to be attractive, light, and effective.
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. This is the practice of optimizing your sites code and content to achieve a higher search engine ranking based off of specific keyword or keyphrase searches.
Can they find you?
One of the biggest misconceptions is that just because they have a website, that it can be found. The next major step is marketing, even for basic sites with a few pages. More than likely, you had your site built so that a certain group of people, or demographic, can find it. The trick is to help that group find your site. Your site must be optimized for search engines.
The subject of search engine optimization is too vast for this section, but is vital to your marketing strategy. Your specific marketing strategy will depend mostly on your particular business model. Are you strictly web based? Are you a brick and mortar business and just using you site to compliment your existing advertising? Everyone's situation is different and that will determine your strategy.
Why do I need SEO?
Every has a website because they are wanting to share specific information, sell products, etc. You cannot achieve these goals if people cannot find you. It is critical to find your niche and optimize your site for that niche. This will ensure that your target audience finds you. Othewise, your web site is just a collection of text and pictures with no purpose.
How do I know if my site is optimized properly for search engines?
The simple way is to go to Google, Yahoo, or MSN and type in a keyword or phrase you are targeting. If your site is not listed within at lease the first five pages, then your site needs optimized. Webcore uses an array of advanced search engine optimization tools to analyze a website to determine its ranking, how to improve its ranking, and what competing sites are doing to achieve a higher ranking. Please visit our SEO HOME PAGE for complete information.
What is organic search engine ranking?
Organic, or "natural", search engine ranking is ranking that is achieved without paying one of the search engines. Oragnic ranking is the purest form of SEO and relies on site content, use of keywords, and sites linking to yours. For example, the Google results in the gray box at the top of the page are sites that have paid for positioning, and the results below the gray box are organic rankings.
Thank You for your understanding.
Thank You for your understanding.
There are several important reasons to choose Webcore Hosting. Below is a short list of reasons compared to other companies. As you can see, Webcore Hosting is the clear choice.
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Other hosting companies:
- Cram hundreds of other sites on the same server, which grealty effects the performance of your site. Especially during peak hours.
- Don't tell you about all of the restrictions that come with their cheap "unlimited" plans.
- Not a professional solution.
- Creates one more obstacle for the web developer when it comes time to update, modify, or maintain the site since all hosting servers are configured differently.
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Webcore Hosting:
- ALL client sites are hosted on a private Webcore servers that are configured specifically for Webcore clients. We NEVER overload our servers.
- Our hosting contains no hidden restrictions, such as how many users can access your site at once.
- Webcore Servers are professional-grade servers offering Enterprise Level hosting.
- Most importantly, if we built your site, doesn't it make sense to have us host it? This streamlines the process of updating, modifying, and maintaining your site. A much better option.
What are your hosting fees?
Please refer to our HOSTING PLANS for more information. Webcore offers reasonable fees, especially when considering the quality of the hosting performance and the features included.
What features are included in your web hosting plans?
Please refer to our HOSTING HOME PAGE for complete information. Webcore web hosting offers all of the same features that other large hosting companies offer. Email, statistics, management, it's all there!
What if my site is already hosted with someone else?
No problem. We simply create your new hosting account on our servers, upload your files to the new account, and change the settings in your domain account so that it will point to our servers whenever someone types in your domain.
*NOTE: you will need to know your domain registar and login information before starting this process.
Internet security is a major consideration with every web site - big or small. New threats emerge every day and it is vital to maitain up-to-date security measures.
How does Webcore protect my web site?
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Webcore implements several security measures including, but not limited to:
- Maintain the latest server software updates and patches.
- Multiple tools to protect email accounts against spam.
- Utilize secure forms to thwart SPAM bots and avoid exposing email addresses.
- Storing user information in 428 bit encrypted files.
- Employing PayPal payment system for maximum protection and customer confidence.
- Transferring files over secure networks and NEVER a public or unsecured network.
- Utilizing "sandbox" programs to isolate and protect customer data from outside threats.
Related Pages & Articles
- Top reasons to choose Webcore
- Web 101
