Build Your Own Website:
10 Steps to Success!

Looking for a website but not sure where to start?

Are the quotes you've received just too expensive?

Is your current website no longer working for you?

Just want to give it a shot and see how you go?

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If you can relate to any of the above, you are in the right place!

Read our 10 steps below on how you can make your website succeed.

Or...

Watch our FREE training on how ONE simple change to your site can increase sales 2-5X.

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1. Plan Your Website

Often overlooked and undervalued -- a solid plan should always be the first step.

Too often people start a website and just throw in blocks that website builders offer. However, a well-thought-out plan sets the foundation for the entire project, ensuring you stay focused and organised.

Here’s a quick guide to planning your website effectively:

1) Start by clearly defining the primary purpose of your website. Ask yourself what you want to achieve with it. Common website purposes include:

• Blogging: Sharing personal thoughts, expertise, and stories.
• Business: Promoting your products or services and generating leads or sales.
• Portfolio: Showcasing your work and skills, particularly for creative professionals.
• E-commerce: Selling products or services directly to customers.
• Informational: Providing valuable information and resources on a specific topics.

Having a clear purpose helps guide the design and content of your site, making it easier to align with your goals.

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2) Once you’ve defined your website’s purpose, set specific, measurable goals. Goals help you track progress and determine the success of your site. Examples of website goals include:

• Increasing website traffic by a certain percentage over a specified time.
• Generating a specific number of leads per month.
• Achieving a target number of sales or sign-ups.
• Building an email subscriber list.
• Enhancing brand awareness and engagement.

Make sure your goals are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.

Understanding your target audience is crucial for creating a website that resonates with them. Consider the following aspects when identifying your audience:

• Demographics: Age, gender, location, education level, and income.
• Interests: Hobbies, preferences, and lifestyle.
• Pain Points: Challenges and problems they face that your website can help solve.
• Behaviour: How they use the internet, what websites they visit, and what content they consume.

Creating detailed buyer personas can be a helpful exercise. These are fictional representations of your ideal customers, based on real data and insights.

3) Often skipped but very handy to have; A sitemap is a visual representation of your website’s structure. It outlines the main pages and their hierarchical relationship. This serves as your roadmap during the development process. Here’s how to create an effective sitemap:

• List All Main Pages: Start by listing all the main pages you want on your site, such as Home, About, Services, Blog, Contact, etc.
• Organize Pages Hierarchically: Arrange the pages in a logical order, from the homepage down to subpages and sections.
• Define Page Content: Briefly outline the content and purpose of each page.
• Consider User Flow: Think about how users will navigate your site. Ensure that important pages are easily accessible and that the flow is intuitive.

There are various tools available to help you create sitemaps, such as Lucidchart, MindMeister, and even simple drawing tools.

Think about the types of content and features you’ll need to include on your website to achieve your goals. This might involve:

• Content Types: Blog posts, product descriptions, case studies, testimonials, videos, infographics, etc.
• Functionalities: Contact forms, search functionality, social media integration, e-commerce capabilities, user accounts, etc.

By thoroughly planning your website, you set a strong foundation that makes the design, development, and launch processes smoother and more efficient. A solid plan ensures that your website will meet the needs of your audience and achieve your goals effectively.

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2. Choose a Domain Name

Choosing the right domain name is a critical step in establishing your website’s identity. Your domain name is the address where your website lives on the internet, and it’s often the first thing visitors see.

Your domain name should stand out and be easy to remember. A unique domain name helps distinguish your site from others and makes it more likely that visitors will remember it.

• Keep It Short and Simple: Shorter names are easier to remember and type. Aim for a domain name that is concise and straightforward.
• Avoid Numbers and Hyphens: Numbers and hyphens can be confusing and harder to remember. Stick to letters to keep it simple.
• Be Creative and Original: Try to create a name that reflects your brand’s personality and stands out from the competition.

Your domain name should give visitors an idea of what your website is about. It should align with your brand, business, or the main content you’re offering. Consider the following:

• Brand Consistency: If you already have a brand name, try to include it in your domain name to maintain consistency across your online presence.
• Keywords: Including relevant keywords can help with search engine optimization (SEO) and make it clear what your website offers. For example, if you run a bakery, a domain like "TastyTreatsBakery.co.nz" can be beneficial.

By carefully selecting a domain name that is unique, memorable, and reflective of your brand or content, you set a strong foundation for your website’s success. This crucial step ensures that your site is easily recognizable and accessible to your target audience.

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3. Select a Domain Hosting company

Once you have a few (domain) name ideas, check their availability. Many domain names are already taken, so you might need to get creative or consider alternatives. Here’s how to check and purchase your domain:

• Use Domain Search Tools: Search tools are on most register websites and check the availability of your chosen domain names. Here are some that we use:
  • Find your new domain (myhost.nz)
  • Search and Check Domain Names Availability Instantly | Freeparking NZ
  • 1st Domains, Register a Domain Name
• Consider Different Extensions: If your preferred .co.nz domain is taken, consider other extensions like .com, .net, .org, .nz, or even newer ones like .blog, .shop, or .io. However .co.nz, .nz and .com are still the most recognized and trusted extension for New Zealand.
• Check Social Media Handles: Ensure that your domain name (or a close variation) is available on major social media platforms to maintain brand consistency across channels.

Once you find an available domain name, it’s time to purchase it from a domain registrar. Here are some steps to follow:

• Choose a Reputable Registrar: Select a trusted domain registrar like MyHost, 1st domains, or FreeParking.
• Email Hosting: Choose a provider that also hosts your emails and has an easy setup for this. Google is actually harder to setup than some of the other providers.
• Register for Multiple Years: Consider registering your domain for multiple years to ensure you don’t lose it if you forget to renew. Many registrars offer discounts for longer-term registrations.
• Set Up Automatic Renewal: Enable automatic renewal to avoid accidentally letting your domain registration expire.

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4. Choose a Website Building Platform

Selecting the right website building platform is a crucial decision in creating your website. The platform you choose will affect how you design, manage, and maintain your site. Here’s an in-depth look at the main options available, their pros and cons, and how to choose the best one for your needs.

Website Builders

Popular Website Builders: Wix, Squarespace, Weebly

Pros:

• Ease of Use: Drag-and-drop interfaces make these platforms user-friendly and easy to learn, even for beginners. That said, we have heard many clients say that they find these platforms quite overwhelming to work with, and not as easy to use as promised!
• All-in-One Solutions: Hosting, security, and maintenance are typically included.
• Design Templates: Access to a variety of professionally designed templates that can be customized.
• Quick Setup: You can get a website up and running quickly without technical hassles.

Cons:

• Limited Flexibility: Customization options can be limited compared to CMS platforms.
• SEO Limitations: While improving, SEO capabilities are often not as robust as those in CMS platforms.
• Cost: Monthly or annual subscription fees can add up, especially for premium plans.

Best For:

• Beginners or those looking for a quick and easy way to build a website.
• Small businesses, personal blogs, and portfolios.
• Users who prefer an all-in-one solution with minimal maintenance.

Content Management Systems (CMS)

Popular CMS Platforms: WordPress, Joomla, Drupal

Pros:

• Flexibility: CMS platforms offer a high degree of customization. You can add various plugins or extensions to enhance functionality. Most times these extensions do come at a cost.
• Scalability: Suitable for both small blogs and large websites. They can grow with your business.
• SEO-Friendly: Many CMS platforms have built-in SEO tools and plugins that help improve your site’s visibility on search engines.
• Community Support: Large user communities provide extensive resources, tutorials, and support.

Cons:

• Learning Curve: Can be complex for beginners. Requires some technical knowledge to set up and manage.
• Maintenance: You need to handle updates, backups, and security measures yourself. If you are not sure what this means this option is not for you.
• Cost: While the CMS itself may be free, you may incur costs for hosting, premium themes, and plugins.

Best For:

• Users with some technical knowledge or willingness to learn.
• Websites that require extensive customization and flexibility.
• Blogs, business websites, e-commerce stores, and more.

After considering the pros and cons of each option and evaluating your specific needs, make an informed decision about which platform is best for you. If you’re still unsure, you can start with a simpler option and switch to a more complex platform as your skills and needs evolve.

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5. Design Your Website (Branding)

Designing your website is one of the most exciting parts of the website-building process - as well as one of the hardest!

This is where you get to bring your vision to life and create an engaging experience for your visitors.

If you have come this far and need further help with your project, let us know! Book a FREE 30-minute consultation.

Here's how to approach designing your website effectively:

Choose a Template or Theme

Templates and themes provide a starting point for your website's design. These come pre-designed with layouts, colour schemes, and features, making it easier to create a professional-looking site without starting from scratch. Things to look out for:

• Match Your Purpose: Select a template or theme that fits the purpose of your website. For instance, a portfolio site might need a visually-driven theme, while a blog might require a content-focused layout.
• Consider Your Brand: Choose a theme that aligns with your brand’s style and aesthetic. Look for elements like typography, colour schemes, and overall design that reflect your brand identity.
• Check Customisation Options: Ensure the theme offers the flexibility to customize it according to your needs. Look for features like customizable headers, footers, and widget areas.

Customize the Design

Once you've selected a template or theme, it's time to make it your own. Customizing the design involves tailoring various elements to align with your brand and website goals:

• Colors: Choose a colour palette that reflects your brand’s personality. Use your brand colours consistently throughout the site to create a cohesive look.
• Fonts: Select fonts that are easy to read and match your brand’s tone. Use a combination of fonts for headings and body text to create visual hierarchy.
• Layout: Organize your content in a clear, logical manner. Use whitespace effectively to avoid clutter and make the site easy to navigate.
• Images and Graphics: Incorporate high-quality images and graphics that enhance your content. Use original images where possible, or find high-quality stock photos that align with your brand.

Ensure Responsiveness and Mobile-Friendliness

More than 70% of traffic comes from mobile devices, so it’s crucial to ensure your website looks great and functions well on all screen sizes.

• Responsive Design: Choose a theme that is responsive out-of-the-box, meaning it automatically adjusts to different screen sizes and orientations.
• Mobile Testing: Test your site on various devices and screen sizes to ensure it’s mobile-friendly. Pay attention to how the layout, images, and text adjust on smaller screens.
• Mobile Optimization: Optimise images and other media for faster loading on mobile devices. Simplify navigation and make sure buttons and links are easy to tap.
• Everything should be accessible within 3 clicks from your home screen! If this is not the case, you may want to restructure your site.

Focus on User Experience (UX)

Creating a positive user experience is key to keeping visitors engaged and encouraging them to return. Here are some UX principles to consider:

• Intuitive Navigation: Make it easy for users to find what they’re looking for. Use clear, descriptive labels for menu items and ensure important pages are accessible from the main navigation.
• Consistent Design: Maintain consistency in design elements across all pages. This includes using the same fonts, colors, and styles to create a unified look.
• Accessibility: Ensure your website is accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Use alt text for images, ensure proper contrast ratios, and make your site navigable by keyboard.
• Fast Loading Times: Optimise your site for speed by compressing images, minimizing code, and leveraging browser caching. Fast loading times improve user experience and can boost your SEO.

Incorporate Essential Features

Depending on the purpose of your website, you may need to include various features to enhance functionality and user engagement. Some essential features to consider are:

• Contact Forms: Provide an easy way for visitors to get in touch with you. Ensure the form is simple and accessible.
• Social Media Integration: Link to your social media profiles and make it easy for visitors to share your content.
• Search Functionality: Include a search bar to help users find specific content quickly (only for large sites).
• Call-to-Action Buttons: Use clear and compelling call-to-action (CTA) buttons to guide users towards desired actions, such as signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase.
• Blog: If your website includes a blog, ensure it’s easy to navigate with categories, tags, and a search function.

We understand that the above process can be overwhelming, and you might not know where to start. A professional web designer can often achieve your goals within a tenth of the time you would spend trying and make it look sharp while following all of the above steps.

Book a FREE 30-minute consultation to see how Web By Design can help you.

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6. Develop content

Content is the cornerstone of your website. High-quality, engaging content can attract visitors, keep them on your site longer, and encourage them to return.

Before you start creating content, establish a clear content strategy. This will help you stay focused and ensure your content aligns with your website’s goals. Consider the following:

• Goals and Objectives: Revisit the goals and objectives from step 1. What do you want to achieve with your content? Common goals include increasing traffic, generating leads, educating your audience, or building brand awareness.
• Target Audience: Who are you creating content for? Understand your audience's needs, interests, and pain points to tailor your content accordingly.
• Content Types: Decide on the types of content that will resonate with your audience. This could include blog posts, articles, videos, infographics, podcasts, case studies, testimonials, etc.

Visual content can significantly enhance the appeal of your website and help convey information more effectively.

• High-Quality Images: Use high-resolution images that are relevant to your content. Avoid generic stock photos; instead, use original images where possible.
• Infographics: Create infographics to present data and complex information in a visually appealing and easy-to-understand format.
• Illustrations and Icons: Use custom illustrations and icons to add a unique touch to your website and help explain concepts visually.
• Alt Text: Add descriptive alt text to all images to improve accessibility and SEO.

A well-organized website enhances user experience and makes it easy for visitors to find what they’re looking for. Here’s how to organize your content effectively:

• Clear Navigation: Ensure your website has a clear and intuitive navigation structure. Use descriptive labels for menu items and group related content under relevant categories.
• Content Hierarchy: Arrange content in a logical hierarchy, with the most important information at the top. Use headings and subheadings to break up text and guide readers through your content.
• Internal Linking: Use internal links to connect related content and guide visitors to other relevant pages on your site. This improves navigation and keeps users engaged longer.
• Search Functionality: Include a search bar to help visitors quickly find specific content on your website if your website has significant content.

Text is a fundamental component of your website content. If you come across a site with lots of text, but little actual content than you will understand why this is so important. Here are 5 things you should be doing on your site.

• Compelling Headlines: Craft attention-grabbing headlines that make visitors want to read more. Use action words, numbers, and clear benefits to draw readers in.
• Informative and Valuable Content: Provide valuable information that addresses your audience’s needs and questions. Be thorough, accurate, and authoritative.
• Clear and Concise Writing: Write in a clear, concise manner. Avoid jargon and complex language. Break up text with subheadings, bullet points, and short paragraphs to enhance readability.
• Storytelling: Use storytelling techniques to make your content more engaging. Share personal anecdotes, case studies, or customer stories to illustrate points and connect with your audience on a deeper level.
• Call-to-Action (CTA): Include clear and compelling CTAs to guide visitors towards desired actions, such as signing up for a newsletter, downloading a resource, or making a purchase.

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7. Optimise for SEO

There is no shortcut to SEO. To attract visitors to your site, optimising for search engines (SEO) is essential. Begin by conducting thorough keyword research to identify the terms and phrases your target audience uses when searching for content related to your site. Incorporate these keywords naturally into your content, including titles, headings, and meta descriptions. This ensures that search engines understand the relevance of your content and rank it higher in search results.

A clean URL structure is vital for both user experience and SEO. Use descriptive URLs that include relevant keywords and avoid unnecessary parameters or complex strings. Additionally, optimise images by including descriptive alt text that incorporates keywords. This not only improves accessibility but also helps search engines index your images correctly.

Ensuring your website is mobile-friendly and has fast loading times also significantly impacts SEO, as search engines prioritise sites that provide a good user experience.

Lastly, use a combination of internal and external links to enhance your site's SEO. Internal links connect related content within your website, helping search engines understand the structure and hierarchy of your site while keeping visitors engaged. External links to authoritative sites add credibility and context to your content. Regularly update your site with fresh, high-quality content, and monitor your SEO performance using tools like Google Analytics and Search Console to make data-driven adjustments.

If you believe that your content on your site is meeting the standards, but your site just does not rank as you expected you could reach out to a website developer. They may be able to help you get your site right.

Let's book a 30 minute FREE consultation to see how Web By Design can help you if you are stuck.

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8. Test Your Website

Before launching your website, thorough testing is crucial to ensure it functions correctly and provides a seamless experience for users. Start by testing your site on multiple browsers, including Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge, as well as various devices like desktops, tablets, and smartphones. This cross-browser and cross-device testing helps identify compatibility issues and ensures your site looks and works well for all users. Pay special attention to responsive design, ensuring that your layout, images, and text adjust appropriately on different screen sizes.

Next, meticulously check for broken links, typos, and any other errors that could detract from user experience or harm your site's credibility. Use tools like W3C Link Checker to identify broken links and proofreading software to catch typos and grammatical mistakes. Test all interactive elements, such as forms, buttons, and navigation menus, to confirm they function correctly. Make sure forms submit data accurately, buttons lead to the correct pages, and navigation is intuitive and smooth. Additionally, verify that any multimedia content, like videos and animations, plays correctly without causing any issues. By addressing these details, you can ensure a polished, professional website that provides a positive experience for your visitors.

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9. Launch Your Website

After meticulously designing, developing, and testing your website, it's finally time to go live. Start by double-checking all elements of your site to ensure everything is in place and functioning as expected. Confirm that your hosting plan is active, your domain name is properly connected, and all SSL certificates are installed for security. Once you're confident that your website is ready, proceed with the official launch. This is an exciting milestone, so prepare to make a significant announcement.

Promote your launch through various channels to maximize visibility and reach. Utilize social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram to announce your website to your followers. Craft engaging posts with compelling visuals and links to your site. Additionally, send out email newsletters to your subscribers, informing them about your new website and highlighting key features or content they might find interesting. Consider writing a press release to reach a broader audience and gain media coverage. During the initial launch phase, closely monitor your website’s performance. Keep an eye out for any technical issues, broken links, or user feedback that could help you make immediate improvements. Be responsive to comments and inquiries, demonstrating that you value user engagement and are committed to providing a seamless experience.

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10. Maintain and Update Your Website

Now sit back and see the results come in, right?

... Not quite.

Launching your website is just the beginning of an ongoing process to ensure its success. Regular maintenance and updates are essential to keep your site relevant, secure, and engaging for your audience. Start by consistently updating your content to keep it fresh and valuable. This includes adding new blog posts, articles, videos, and other media that resonate with your audience’s interests and needs. Regular content updates not only engage your current visitors but also improve your search engine rankings, attracting new visitors to your site. Additionally, keep your website’s information up to date, such as contact details, product or service offerings, and any other key details that may change over time.

Monitoring your website's performance is another critical aspect of maintenance. Use analytics tools like Google Analytics to track metrics such as traffic, user behaviour, engagement and conversion rates. Analyse this data to identify areas for improvement and make data-driven decisions. For example, if you notice low engagement rates on certain pages, investigate the cause and optimise those pages for better engagement. Pay attention to user feedback as well, whether through direct comments, surveys, or reviews. This feedback can provide valuable insights into how users experience your site and what improvements are needed. Regularly update and refine your website based on these insights to ensure it continues to meet user expectations and stays competitive.

Additionally, test your site’s functionality periodically to ensure all features, forms, and interactive elements work correctly. By staying proactive with updates and maintenance, you can ensure your website remains a reliable, engaging, and secure platform for your audience.