Cheryl Rickman Author / Web Businesswoman

Setting Up An Online Business WHEN STARTING UP IN BUSINESS – THINK ABOUT… What services do people need that you could provide them with? How can you offer something better, faster, safer, than the rest? How can you take your idea onto the Internet?

Can Anyone Be A Web Entrepreneur? YES! Have An Idea Have Belief Find Your Passion Spend Time Becoming An Expert On Something Learn About The Web

Do All Businesses Need a Website? YES! The web provides: a great platform for business (pure dot coms) to operate from an extension of an existing traditional business. If businesses don’t offer their customers the extra choice of visiting a website, their competitors will. Websites are a vital marketing tool. Low costs + multimedia capabilities + rise in Internet usage = dynamic marketing channel.

Benefits of Business Online Level playing field. David vs Goliath Sell products/services 24 hours a day, seven days a week Global reach. It is easier to target niche audiences online Marketing can be quick and cheap. Working from home becomes a more viable option Less initial outlay than leasing a shop or office space Multiple revenue streams Use web analytics for customer intelligence

Website Success Criteria 1.navigation/information hierarchy/usability - easy to use 2.fresh content – to encourage return visits from your visitors 3.copywriting - the message must be clear, crisp and web-friendly 4.design and appearance needs to create the right perception 5.search engine readiness – must be indexable by search engines 6.accessibility –accessible by all, including blind and disabled 7.legality/security – privacy policies, terms and conditions 8.web metrics/competitive intelligence – track visitors /competitors 9.customer satisfaction – timely response, quality, fast delivery

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