This is a simple and easy to understand user guide for people that have absolutely no experience in website planning. It intends to answer some of the main questions that you may have and will hopefully prepare you for that first meeting with your web designer or with us.
What is Your Website About?
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of website planning, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of what your website is all about. This fundamental question will shape every aspect of your site, from its design to its content. Take some time to define your website’s purpose, whether it’s to showcase your portfolio, sell products, provide information, or entertain users. Having a concise mission statement will guide your decisions throughout the planning process.
Segment, Target, and Position
Know your people: Think about the different groups of people who might be interested in your website. These groups are called segments. For example, if you’re selling sports gear, one segment might be people who love running, while another might be those who enjoy hiking.
Choose your focus: Decide which of these groups you want to focus on. This is your target audience. It’s like picking your favorite flavor of ice cream from many options.
Stand Out: Once you’ve chosen who you want to reach, figure out what makes your website special for them. This is your position. It’s like saying, “Hey, we’re the best place for runners because we have the coolest shoes and the friendliest advice!”
Market Research
In today’s crowded online landscape, market research is more critical than ever. Take the time to research your competitors and understand what they’re offering. Analyse their strengths and weaknesses to identify opportunities for your website to be better than theirs. Pay attention to forums, blogs, and social networks frequented by your target audience. Engage with potential users to gather insights and feedback that can inform your website planning process.
Choosing a Domain and Hosting
Selecting the right domain name is an important decision that can impact your website’s branding and visibility. Consider choosing a domain name that is memorable, relevant to your website’s content, and easy to spell. Use domain search tools to check availability and explore alternative options if your desired domain is already taken. Additionally, choose a reliable hosting provider that offers the features and resources you need to support your website.
Structure and Content
Planning the structure and content of your website is a critical step that will save you time and effort in the long run. Start by outlining the main sections and pages of your site, considering the user journey and navigation flow. Define the purpose and key messages for each page, ensuring that your content is clear, concise, and engaging. While full content is not needed for each page to begin with, an idea on the amount of pages will be helpful information.