Believe it or not, creating a website is as much our clients' job as it is ours. Many clients aren't sure where to begin. Here are 10 guidelines to help make the process easier:

1. RELAX! We can make the process easy and fun for you.

2. Budget. Start with a realistic budget! We charge hourly rates and will do our best to stay within your budget. See "How Much Will it Cost?" for some budgeting ideas and our billing policies page for details about retainers and payments. New clients also must complete the Consulting Policy Agreement form on our billing policies page.

3. Trial Site. Sign up for either a WebSite (no store) or a WebStore (shopping cart/e-commerce). You can change your mind about the type of site later, either upgrading or downgrading as your requirements change. We also ask that you activate your site before we begin our design work; simply click the big green ACTIVATE button that appears after you sign up or log in (button shown at right).

4. Keywords (for Search Engines). Choose keywords that you expect people will use when searching for your site in Google, Yahoo, or other similar search engines. Pick about 15 or 20 (maximum) and then be sure any content you supply uses these keywords often.

5. Description (for Search Engines). Provide a concise description of your website and business (25-30 words). Search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and others typically use the site description when displaying search results on the Internet.

6. Menu Buttons. Specify short, descriptive names for each button (main menu) and any submenu buttons you wish to use. For example, typical website buttons are Home, About Us, Products, Contact Us. Within Products, you might have a submenu for each category of product that you sell.

7. Favorite Sites. Provide us with links to other sites that you particularly like, along with a brief explanation of why you like each one. This will help us create a design that meets your needs. Of course, we will not copy someone else's site, but the more information we have about your likes and dislikes, the better!

8. Color Scheme. Give us a color scheme that you prefer. If you have artwork in that color scheme, all the better. Color choices are very personal, and each person (and each computer monitor) perceives color differently. So if you can give us examples with the exact colors you prefer, we can do a better job.

9. Content & Photos. Provide content for the site, including text, photos, logos, etc. Be sure your content uses your keywords so that your site will have the best chance possible to score well with search engines such as Google. Send us whatever information you have, even if it exists only on paper brochures. Of course, electronically readable materials are best, because they save us time and you money. We also can help you develop your content and graphics.

10. COMMUNICATE! Perhaps the most important step is to stay in touch with us via phone and email! We'll need your help and lots of feedback during the design process. You should be readily available by email and phone so we can work efficiently and ensure the finished site will please you. And, of course, please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!