FAQs

Why do I need a Web page?
Besides the fact that most businesses have some sort of Internet presence nowadays, having a website allows potential customers to find out about what you have to offer. This can help save you time normally spent on the telephone, allows customers to buy your products online, keeps you from depending on walk-ins during the slow season, displays the items on your menu (restaurants), displays charter boat schedules (captains) or can even show properties (realtors). Plus, having a nice-looking website will do wonders for first impressions.

What do I need to build a Web page?
First, you must have most or all of the information you want to appear on your page(s). While we will assist you in finding images to use on your site and offer input on content, it's up to you to supply as many pictures as you can, as well as provide the text to appear on the pages. This can be supplied to us via a Word document or simply as part of an email. Working on a web page is a two-way street, and while it is our job to design and build the page, it is equally important that you assist in the process. You wouldn't hire an architect to design a house and not give any input, would you? The same is true with your website. Typically, we'll send you a link to your website as it is being built so you can view the progress and recommend changes and/or additions.

Typically, a strong paragraph describing what you offer should open the site. Use keywords that you would look for if searching for a site on any of the search engines. An "about us" page to get into more detail is also suggested. Here, you can discuss the finer points (philosophies, strategies, biographical history, etc.). If you are selling products, please have all prices, product descriptions, and shipping information ready.

Also, if you have not secured a domain name (www.yourcompanyname.com), it is highly recommended that you do so at this time. While there are numerous websites that offer free web pages, they will most likely have long, complicated URL addresses, plus they will contain advertising. Your own domain name is much easier to remember by your customers and to find by web users; plus it adds a personal touch to your site.

What do I do after I select a domain name?
After purchasing a domain name you will need hosting space. This is not the same as an ISP (Internet Service Provider, such as AOL, Bellsouth, Earthlink, etc.), which allows dial-up or high-speed access to the web. Monthly hosting fees start at about $9.99, the price being determined by how much bandwidth your site requires; the more visitors you draw, the higher bandwidth you will need. The amount of files and size of those files being stored on your site will also help determine the cost of your monthly plan. Most sites, however, will fall in the $9.99 category.

I already registered a domain name. What now?
If you have secured a domain name from Paradise Technologies, Inc., or someone else, we will need whatever user name and password you selected when registering it. We will need that information so we can properly configure your website. Most domain registrars will allow you to add an authorized user to your account. If you add us to your account this way we can configure the domain settings, while you still have full control over everything in the account.

Okay, we are underway building a site. What can I expect?
We will send you regular updates on the site's progress, mainly through a link that you can visit; this will allow you to give input and request changes as needed. Remember that the website you see is merely a rough draft, and anything can change and probably will as the build progresses.

How do I promote my website?
Depending on your advertising budget, promoting a website can either be done through traditional advertising (newspaper or magazine), or through online reciprocal links with other websites that may compliment yours. Submitting your site to the various search engines on the Web will also help get your website indexed. For an extra fee, we will submit your site to the various search engines. (Note: many sites now require payment for submission — their charge, not ours.) Adding your website to various forums or bulletin boards on the Internet will also help draw visitors.

There are many ways to promote your site, and just like a brick-and-mortar company, simply being listed in a directory is not enough. But always remember: you get what you put into your website.

Can't I build my own website?
While many companies offer "build-your-own-website" features, most only allow users to create sites using a limited number of templates, which affects layout possibilities. Plus, let's face it, many people just don't have the time to update their websites, or to learn basic web design and development skills. While using these types of web services are fine — for the most part — for personal websites, we don't recommend using them to create a professional online presence.

Well, my nephew/next-door neighbor's son/daughter can make Web pages...
...and we're sure he/she is capable of answering your business phone, too. The point: without proper training that individual is incapable of saying all the right things to the person on the other end of the line. Let our years of experience and expertise keep you from worrying about what your users/clients are being presented.

Do you only work in the Florida Keys?
No, we don't limit ourselves to the Keys, even though our name implies otherwise. In fact, quite a few of our clients live across the United States, Costa Rica, and many other places.

Do you maintain and update the sites you create?
Yes we do. Many of our clients return to us on a regular basis for updates. Typically, we will make whatever changes you request within 24 hours during regular business hours (EST). Our rate is an hourly fee, broken down into 15 minutes worth of billable time. Fifteen minutes may not sound like a lot, but we can make minor changes (add/change text or photos) in that time.


Website Design, Site Development and Search Engine Optimization (SEO) from Key West and the Florida Keys