Step 1: Plan your website

Planning is the first, and most important, step in developing a website. The more you plan, the more effective and powerful your web presence.

It's important to thoroughly understand what you are setting out to accomplish. It's equally essential to know what's out there already and how you can distinguish yourself. If you already have a website, is it doing what you want or need it to do, or is it time for an overhaul?

Do you want your website to do any of the following:

• Provide your company with professional credibility?
• Drive revenue? Cut costs?
• Introduce new products and services?
• Decrease pre-sales time by displaying portfolios online?
• Show product availability?
• Inform non-profit funders and constituents about upcoming events?
• Help your customers find the resources they need for success?
• Make the site more prominent in search engine rankings?

Once you have a clear vision and attainable goals, start easily editing your website and put your plan into motion.