How To Plan A Website
In this article, I will teach you step by step how to plan a website. One of the hardest things about creating a website is getting started. These steps will help you establish a direction and basic framework for your website.
Step 1.
The first step to planning a website is to establish the goal. Most websites are created with the goal of either selling a product, service, conveying information, or a combination of those things. By establishing the goal of your website you'll be able to make good decisions about the structure of your website.
For example, if your goal is to sell a catalog of products you will want to leverage the store app because creating a database of products with descriptions and prices if more efficient than creating a page for each product you're selling. Likewise, if you're looking to create a news website with hundreds of articles you're best served to use the blog app to create a database of articles instead of creating hundreds of uniquely designed pages.
For the most part, if you're running a small business, service business, club, team, or organization you're best served by creating a five to ten-page website packed full of the relevant information the people visiting your website are seeking. In those cases, there's no need to integrate a store app or blog but simply create the pages you need to convey the most important information and get found online.
Step 2.
The second step to planning your website is to determine the pages you want to create. If you have an online store or you're creating a website with hundreds of articles you're still going to need a few supporting pages. Some of the most common pages every website should have are the following.
Home - This is obvious. Your home page is going to be the page people see when they type your web address into their web browser.
Landing Page - A landing page is somewhere you send people to from an advertisement or another promotion. For the most part, the home page will be your landing page but sometimes you'll need a page or pages that have content that's focused on a particular objective. For example, if you're advertising widgets on Google you may want to take someone to a page that focuses on that particular product as opposed to taking them to your home page and requiring them to figure out where to find more information about that product on your website.
About - This is a page usually used to help your audience get to know you. It's common to share things on this page like photos of your team members, short biographies, stories of how your business got started, things of that nature. In general, they help your site visitors know you're for real and establish credibility.
Contact - Every website really should have a contact page. Many times the person coming to your website will just be looking to talk to someone through phone or email to try and get their questions answered. Of course, that's not a working solution for all websites but even websites that are trying to avoid the public will probably want a contact page so people can report problems with the website and things of that nature. A contact form is a great thing to have on your contact page because it spares you the trouble of people spamming an email address placed publicly on your website.
Products - If you use the store app you probably won't want a separate page that describes your products but there are many cases when you want to show off things you've made or built. A product page is a good place to do that.
Services - If you're in the service business a services page is a good place to describe the different services you offer, how much they cost, and how to schedule them.
Photos - Regardless of what type of website you're creating a photos page is helpful. It's a good place just to visually connect with your audience. If you're running a team or club you'll probably want to post photos of events and outings. If you're a maker it's a good place to have a gallery of photos that show off your work.
Calendars - Websites are a great place to post a public calendar where people can see event times and locations.
Of course, there's really no end to the types of pages you can create for your website. These are just a few of the most common to help you get started.
Step 3.
The third step to planning a website is determining the layout of your pages. One of the keys to quickly and efficiently creating a good web design is using a consistent page layout. In WebStarts we help you do this by splitting the page into three sections. The very top called the header, the very bottom called the footer, and all the space in between called the body. Elements placed in the header and footer appear on any page you create where the header and footer are enabled.
To make each web page look consistent things like your logo, company name, and the menu should go in the header. That way when people navigate from page to page on your website they won't feel lost.
Studies show the average person will skim your page for three or four seconds to make sure they came to the right place before clicking the back button. For that reason, you should include a headline somewhere near the top of the page body that concisely states what your website is all about.
Because most people are simply skimming your pages instead of thoroughly reading the contents. The headline should be followed by some bullet points or short blurbs that explain the virtues of your product, service, or the information they can obtain from your website. Many times you'll see some icons or images that represent the type of information or paragraphs of text explaining the features and benefits of a product or service.
Another thing to keep in mind, if you display photos, those photos should reflect what your website is about. If you place irrelevant photos on your website there's a good chance you'll confuse a visitor and they'll click the back button simply assuming they've come to the wrong place. Always try to remember, people, skim and don't read.
After someone skims your headline and bulleted points they're going to wonder what to do next. Make this question easy for them to answer with a call to action. A call to action might be a phone call, it might be a link you want them to click on, it might be a button or a form where you'd like them to enter their email address. Whatever you want them to do next, spell it out for them.
Finally, in the footer, you should put any pertinent website policies like a privacy policy, terms and conditions. Also, it's a good place to put a link to other places you share content on the web like your social network profiles.
Step 4.
With all your pages created and sensibly laid out you should have a pretty good looking website, easy to navigate website. The last step is to add a domain name to it. A domain name is the web address where people can find your online (Example: YourOwn.com). If at all possible find a domain name that meets these criteria.
- As short as possible
- Easy to spell
- Easy to phonetically sound out
- Your company name or reflective of the type of content on your website
- Preferably a .com
The chances of you meeting all of that criteria are not great because so many domain names have already been claimed. So you might have to get a little creative. Here are a few tips for finding a domain if that perfect one is just not available.
- Add a word to the front or back of your company name. Think "OfficialCompanyName.com" or "CompanyName.com"
- Choose from a more obscure top level domain extension. There are so many new extensions available. Like .website, .secure, .cloud, .fun just to name a few.
- Think of synonyms. If you're a woodworker and you can't find a good domain with the words woodworker in it maybe you try something like wood artisan.
With WebStarts you can choose to either register a new domain name or use an existing one. So if you already have a domain name you registered somewhere else you can use that with your website. You'll just need to update the DNS to ns1.webstarts.com and ns2.webstarts.com. You can usually find those settings fairly easily be logging into the account wherever you purchased the domain name. If you get stuck we can help you figure it out.
When you register a new domain name with WebStarts the domain name begins working with your website immediately. We take the complicated process of configuring the domain out of the equation, doing it programmatically, in the background.
After adding a domain name to your website you're ready to get out there and start telling the world your web address.
How do I start planning a website?▼
To start planning a website, follow these key steps:
1. **Define Your Purpose**: Determine the primary goal of your website. Is it for business, personal use, a portfolio, or an online store? Clear objectives will guide your design and content decisions.
2. **Identify Your Target Audience**: Understand who your visitors will be. Knowing their demographics, interests, and needs will help tailor your content and design to attract and engage them.
3. **Outline Your Content**: Create a sitemap that lists the main pages you want, such as Home, About, Services, Blog, and Contact. This helps organize your content and ensures you cover all necessary topics.
4. **Choose a Design Style**: Think about the visual elements you want, such as colors, fonts, and layout. Look for inspiration from other websites that appeal to your target audience.
5. **Plan for Functionality**: Decide on any special features you need, like contact forms, e-commerce capabilities, or social media integration. This will influence your choice of website builder or platform.
6. **Set a Timeline and Budget**: Outline a realistic timeline for your project and determine your budget, considering costs for domain registration, hosting, design, and any additional services.
By following these steps, you'll create a solid foundation for your website that aligns with your goals and audience needs.
What steps do I need to take to plan a website?▼
To effectively plan a website, follow these key steps:
1. **Define Your Purpose**: Determine what you want your website to achieve—whether it's sharing information, selling products, or promoting a service.
2. **Identify Your Target Audience**: Understand who your visitors are, their needs, and how they will interact with your site. This will guide your design and content choices.
3. **Choose a Domain Name**: Select a memorable and relevant domain name that reflects your brand or the content of your website.
4. **Outline Your Content**: Create a sitemap that lists the main pages and sections of your website, ensuring you cover all necessary topics.
5. **Select a Platform**: Decide whether to use website builders like WordPress or Webstarts, or to hire a developer. Consider your technical skills and budget.
6. **Design Your Layout**: Sketch out how you want your website to look. Focus on user experience, ensuring easy navigation and a clear visual hierarchy.
7. **Plan for SEO**: Research keywords relevant to your content and incorporate them into your site structure and pages to improve search engine visibility.
8. **Set a Budget and Timeline**: Determine how much you can spend on your website and set a realistic timeline for its development.
By following these steps, you can create a well-organized plan that will guide you through the website creation process.
What pages should I include on my website?▼
When planning your website, consider including these essential pages:
1. **Home Page**: This is your website’s front door, where visitors first land. It should clearly convey your brand message and guide users to other important sections.
2. **About Page**: Share your story, mission, and values. This builds trust and connects with your audience on a personal level.
3. **Services or Products Page**: Detail what you offer, including descriptions, pricing, and benefits. Use clear calls to action to encourage inquiries or purchases.
4. **Contact Page**: Provide multiple ways for visitors to reach you, such as a contact form, email, phone number, and social media links.
5. **Blog or Resources Page**: If applicable, include a blog or resources section to share valuable content, improve SEO, and engage your audience.
6. **Privacy Policy and Terms of Service**: These pages are often legally required, so include them to inform users about data usage and site rules.
Tailor your website’s pages based on your specific goals and audience needs. Start with these basics and expand as your site grows!
How to determine the goal of my website?▼
To determine the goal of your website, start by identifying your target audience and what you want them to achieve when visiting your site. Consider what action you want visitors to take, such as making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, or simply learning more about your services.
Next, brainstorm the primary purpose of your site—whether it's to inform, sell, promote, or connect. Write down specific, measurable goals (e.g., "increase sales by 20% in six months") to help guide your website content and design. Lastly, regularly review and adjust your goals based on website performance and user feedback to ensure they align with your evolving business objectives.
What is the best way to structure my website?▼
The best way to structure your website is to create a clear, user-friendly navigation system that guides visitors easily to important content. Start with a simple main menu that includes key sections like Home, About, Services, Blog, and Contact.
Use a logical hierarchy for your pages—place the most important information at the top level and group related content under subpages. For example, if you offer multiple services, create a main "Services" page with links to each specific service. Additionally, incorporate a search function and breadcrumbs to help users find their way around. Always prioritize mobile responsiveness and load speed to enhance user experience.
Why is having a contact page important for my website?▼
Having a contact page on your website is essential because it provides a direct way for visitors to reach you, enhancing communication and trust. It can improve customer service, allowing potential clients to ask questions or express concerns easily. Additionally, a contact page can help gather leads and feedback, ultimately contributing to better user experience and conversion rates. To maximize its effectiveness, include various contact methods (like email, phone, and a contact form) and ensure it’s easy to find from any page on your site.
What information should I put on my About page?▼
Your About page should provide a clear and engaging overview of who you are and what your website or business represents. Include key elements such as:
1. **Your Story**: Share your background, motivations, and what inspired you to start your business or website. This helps build a personal connection with your audience.
2. **Mission Statement**: Clearly state your mission or vision. What do you stand for, and what value do you offer to your visitors or customers?
3. **Team Information**: Introduce key team members if applicable. Brief bios and photos can help humanize your brand.
4. **Achievements**: Mention any notable accomplishments, awards, or milestones that reinforce your credibility.
5. **Call to Action**: Encourage visitors to engage further, whether it’s subscribing to a newsletter, following you on social media, or exploring your products or services.
Keep the tone conversational and make sure the information reflects your brand's personality.
How to create a landing page for my website?▼
To create a landing page for your website, start by defining its purpose. Determine what action you want visitors to take, such as signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase. Next, choose a clean and simple layout that highlights your key message.
1. **Select a Platform**: Use website builders like WordPress, Wix, or Webstarts, which offer templates and easy customization.
2. **Craft a Compelling Headline**: Your headline should grab attention and convey the main benefit of your offer.
3. **Add Clear Call-to-Action (CTA)**: Use buttons or forms that are easy to find and encourage users to take action.
4. **Include Engaging Content**: Use concise text, images, and videos that support your message and keep visitors engaged.
5. **Optimize for SEO**: Incorporate relevant keywords, meta descriptions, and alt text for images to help your page rank in search results.
Finally, test your landing page for responsiveness on different devices and monitor its performance to make necessary adjustments.
What are essential elements of a small business website?▼
Essential elements of a small business website include:
1. **Clear Branding**: Your logo, color scheme, and overall design should reflect your brand identity and values. This helps create a recognizable and professional appearance.
2. **User-Friendly Navigation**: Ensure your website has a simple, intuitive layout with easy-to-find menus. This helps visitors quickly access important information.
3. **Contact Information**: Include a dedicated contact page with your phone number, email address, and business address. Consider adding a contact form for convenience.
4. **Compelling Content**: Provide clear and engaging content that highlights your products or services. Use high-quality images and concise text to convey your message effectively.
5. **Call to Action (CTA)**: Encourage visitors to take action, whether it’s signing up for a newsletter, making a purchase, or contacting you. Use prominent buttons and clear language.
6. **Mobile Responsiveness**: Ensure your website is optimized for mobile devices. Many users browse on their phones, so a responsive design is crucial for a positive user experience.
7. **SEO Basics**: Implement basic search engine optimization (SEO) practices, like using relevant keywords and meta descriptions, to improve your visibility in search engine results.
8. **Privacy Policy and Terms of Service**: Including these pages builds trust with your visitors and is often required by law, especially if you collect any personal information.
By incorporating these elements, you can create a small business website that attracts visitors, communicates your brand effectively, and converts leads into customers.
How do I decide if I need a blog or an online store?▼
To decide whether you need a blog or an online store, consider your primary goals. If your aim is to share information, insights, or engage with an audience on a specific topic, a blog is the way to go. It helps in building community and improving SEO through regular content updates.
On the other hand, if your main objective is to sell products or services online, an online store is essential. It allows you to showcase products, manage inventory, and process transactions. You can also combine both by having a blog on your site that supports your store by providing helpful content related to your products. Evaluate your target audience and what they need to determine the best option for your website.
What’s the difference between a home page and a landing page?▼
The primary difference between a home page and a landing page lies in their purpose and design. A home page serves as the main entry point of your website, providing an overview of your brand, navigation links to other sections, and general information about what you offer. In contrast, a landing page is specifically designed for a targeted marketing campaign, focusing on a single objective, such as capturing leads or promoting a specific product.
Landing pages often have fewer distractions, with a clear call-to-action (CTA) to encourage visitors to take a specific action, like signing up for a newsletter or making a purchase. When planning your website, it’s important to understand these differences to effectively guide your users and meet your business goals.
How many pages should a typical website have?▼
The number of pages a typical website should have varies based on its purpose and content, but most small to medium-sized business websites usually contain between 5 to 15 pages. Essential pages often include a homepage, about page, services or products page, blog, and contact page. For larger sites, like e-commerce or informational platforms, this number can easily exceed 20 pages or more.
To determine the right number of pages for your site, consider your goals, target audience, and the information you want to provide. Start with core pages and expand as needed, ensuring that each page serves a clear purpose and adds value to your visitors.
