Basic Requirements

• Three basic requirements go into building a website: a domain name or URL, a website host service and information programmed in an Internet-friendly format. A domain name is the web address by which Internet users can access a website's files. Registration is accomplished through one of a number of online companies and requires a small yearly fee. Second, a web page requires a connection to an Internet server, called a website host. This server hosts copies of the website's files so they can be viewed by anyone with an Internet connection. Finally, web page files must be programmed in languages that enable viewers to see the pages on the Internet. The primary programming language for Internet use is HTML. Website content and design can also be enhanced by using Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) and various database-oriented programming languages, such as ASP and PHP.
  
  

The Function of Websites

• At its most basic, a website's purpose is communication. A website can impart knowledge or facts, and promote or boost awareness about people, companies and products. A website can also promote business through features such as e-commerce or online teleconferencing. Social networking and sharing of viewpoints are also functions of websites.
  
  

Time Frame for Building Websites

• The time required to build a website can vary depending on how extensive or detailed the website is. Taking time to determine a website's goals is an important first step. The time necessary to prepare the files for a website includes creation of photos and images for online use, as well as programming of files in the appropriate formats and writing the content. Another factor affecting the time it takes to build a website is the computer experience of the people preparing the files. Once a website's files are launched, regular time must be set aside for maintenance and updating, so the website remains current.
  
  

Sources for Website Design

• Website building can be accomplished in several ways. Self-creation is one option, but the process requires both an understanding of website HTML programming and access to image preparation and code-authoring software. Another method for building a website is to contract with a web-programming professional. For this process, the website owner is often responsible for developing and providing the website content, while the contractor is responsible for programming the content in a format that accomplishes the website's goals. A third option is to take advantage of one of the many online template-based web-development services. Using this approach, a website owner can choose from predesigned templates, which can be customized with selected colors, images and specific content.
  
  

Content

• Perhaps the most important consideration when building a website is the content itself. Relevant and thorough content presented in a user-friendly manner is key to accomplishing a website's goals. In addition, determining a site's specific user features is also important. A website's features might include media such as audio or video files, search engines, social networking features (chat capabilities and forums, for example) or interactive features, such as polls, surveys and feedback forms.