Before You Start Your Website

by

Flora Morris Brown, Ph.D.

New gift basket business owners often ask if they should set up a website right away. They seem to believe that it's the next logical step after starting their businesses. "But there are a number of overlooked points to consider," according to Melissa Guzzetta, owner of Computer Tutor, "before you can enjoy profits from your website." I agree.

First, before you can have a profitable website it's helpful to have a profitable business.

Second, do you have minimal computer knowledge?
Don't laugh. Many of us have computers that own us rather than the other way around. Do you know the difference between an operating system and an application? Are you comfortable with computer terminology? Even if you hire someone else to set up your website, you must be conversant with your computer and your webmaster.

Third, do you have file management under control?

• Can you create and organize files so that you can find them when you need them?
• Do you have the minimum software required to run your business?
• Are you able to keep track of your prospects and your financial records? "Too many business owners are still mystified about their computers," shares Melissa, owner of Computer Tutor "and are not using their computers to their advantage or worse, they depend heavily on others."

If you answered yes to these questions it's time to begin your research to decide the purpose and look of your website. Then you will need to select a domain name, a host and a webmaster or web development software if you will create your own. Get the help you need making these important decisions with our special report "Prescription for a Successful Gift Basket Website."

About the Author

Flora Morris Brown, Ph.D. is a Professor Emeritus at Fullerton College, educational consultant, gift basket expert, writer and professional motivational speaker. From her websites, blogs and newsletters she motivates small business owners and gift retailers with sales-generating ideas, marketing tips, design ideas and business success strategies. She is mother of four and grandmother of three. When she's not traveling she enjoys her home in Anaheim, CA.