A website is a collection of web pages stored on a web server that are designed to be accessed and interacted with via the internet. Each website has a unique domain name that serves as its address, allowing users to find it among the vast array of information available online.
Web pages can be accessed via a web browser installed on devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones. Browsers interpret the code of web pages and present the content in a user-friendly format.
Static Websites
Basic form of website.
Easy to create using HTML and CSS; does not involve scripting.
Content is fixed unless manually changed by the webmaster.
The same content is displayed for every visitor regardless of location or time, making it less dynamic.
Dynamic Websites (CMS)
Content changes based on user input, time of day, location, and other variables.
Utilizes client-side or server-side scripting to generate content dynamically, such as using PHP for server-side processing.
Mobile Websites
Tailored primarily for mobile devices and optimized for smaller screens.
Often presents content differently compared to the desktop version, potentially simplifying navigation and layout for ease of use.
Responsive Websites
Automatically adjusts and resizes based on the device being used, ensuring a consistent experience across all platforms.
Uses a single domain name for accessibility across devices, enhancing accessibility and search engine optimization.
Personal Websites
Contains personal information, creative content, and hobbies of the individual.
Used for expressing personal views, sharing experiences, and showcasing talents, often including blogs or portfolios.
Business Websites
Provides comprehensive information related to a business, including:
Vision and Mission: Outlining the company's goals and ideals.
Products and Services: Descriptions of offerings including features and benefits.
News: Updates about the company, press releases, or announcements.
Career Opportunities: Job listings and information about the workplace culture.
Contact Information: Methods to reach the business, including phone numbers, email addresses, and physical locations.
e-Commerce Websites
Facilitates the buying and selling of products or services online, allowing for a seamless shopping experience.
Supports transactions and safe information transfer over the internet, often integrating secure payment gateways.
Example: Different URL formats such as www.m.amazon.com for mobile devices vs www.amazon.com for desktops enhancing user experience based on device type.
Social Networking Websites
Online platforms for users to create public profiles and interact with others through posts, comments, and shares.
Purpose is to share information, network, and engage on various topics, forming communities around shared interests.
Info Websites
Include various types, such as blogs, forums, wikis, answer sites, and web directories, providing diverse content and community engagement.
Prerequisites
Define domain name (the website's address) to ensure easy access for users.
Choose web hosting (storage for the website) that offers adequate bandwidth and support.
Understanding Target Audience
Analyze audience needs, interests, and preferences to create relevant content and functionality tailored to their requirements.
Selection of Keywords
Identify keywords that the target audience searches for, optimizing content for search engines to enhance visibility.
Number of Website Pages
Decide how many pages the website will have for content presentation to ensure a clear and navigable structure.
Designing Blueprint of Web Pages
Incorporate design elements such as:
Business logo for branding.
Navigation features for ease of access.
Headlines and calls to action to guide user behavior.
Social profile links for broader engagement.
Images and text content to enhance the user experience.
Footer for additional information and links to policies.
Defining Website Objectives
Micro Objectives
Focus on short-term activities to increase visitor engagement, such as planning activities for increased time spent on-site and features that encourage downloads or inquiries.
Macro Objectives
Long-term goals such as driving sales and brand building, generating leads through engagement (e.g., newsletter submissions, inbound calls), and establishing trust through testimonials and case studies.
Micro Objectives
Providing information about services, free trials, demo meetings, and engagement initiatives to attract potential clients.
Macro Objectives
Focus on overall sales growth, client engagement, and building a solid brand reputation in the industry.