In today’s digital age, the internet has become an indispensable tool for businesses, but many website users remain unaware of the intricacies involved in building and maintaining a website. At our company, we believe in transparency and empowering our clients with knowledge. Therefore, we want to shed light on the responsibilities and costs associated with running a website. While the actual expenses may vary depending on your website’s features and needs, we’ll provide you with a general idea of what to expect when embarking on this journey.
Building the Website
The primary cost associated with a website is website design and programming. The expenses can range significantly based on the complexity of your desired website. For instance, a large website with custom features could cost thousands of dollars, but we also offer more budget-friendly industry-specific starter websites starting at just $600.
While some may be enticed by free or low-cost website builders, we caution that they may not be the ideal fit for most businesses due to their limitations and lack of flexibility.
Additionally, you will need to populate your website with content, including photos, text content, and more. If time permits, you can create your content for free, but hiring a professional content writer or purchasing high-quality images may be worth considering.
It’s also crucial to understand that websites have a finite lifespan. Over time, your site may become incompatible with certain browsers or devices, necessitating a redesign to remain competitive. While this typically takes several years, it’s essential to keep this in mind for future planning.
Registering a Domain Name
A domain name is akin to an address for your website, allowing potential clients and search engines to locate your site on the web. Choose a domain name that reflects your brand, is concise, and distinct from other brands.
Domain registration is an ongoing maintenance cost. Domains can be purchased for up to 10 years, with prices varying based on the chosen extension. For instance, the classic .com extension generally costs around $15 per year, while newer extensions may be pricier.
To prevent your site from going down, it’s essential to keep your domain contact information up-to-date to receive renewal notifications. Failure to renew your domain could result in someone else purchasing it, potentially leading to complications with spammers or competitors.
Purchasing a Hosting Plan
Web hosting is vital for making your website accessible on the World Wide Web. It involves storing your website on purpose-built computers called servers and providing internet connectivity via data centers.
At our company, we offer two types of hosting: standard hosting with adjustable storage and transfer limits, and Managed WordPress hosting, specifically designed for WordPress sites. While our hosting plans are recommended, there are other reputable providers you can choose from.
Hosting is an ongoing cost but is generally affordable. Our basic hosting plan starts at just $130 per year (approximately $10 per month). Additional features may incur additional expenses, but they can prove valuable. For example, Managed WordPress hosting, at around $100 extra per year, includes automatic updates and an SSL certificate, which pays off in the long run.
When selecting a host, prioritize security and site speed over enticing deals that might sacrifice crucial factors.
Updating Your Content
Websites require regular content updates, whether to maintain accuracy or keep the site fresh. With modern content management systems, anyone can update their site without coding knowledge, allowing for free content updates. However, for those who prefer professional assistance or lack the time, developers can be hired to make the changes.
Managing Technical Maintenance
Technical updates are essential to preserving the security and functionality of your website. Regular platform and plugin updates are necessary to stay ahead of potential security risks and to optimize performance.
Managing updates can be done manually, hired on an hourly basis, or through Managed WordPress hosting. Regularly maintaining updates will ensure smooth operation and minimal disruptions.
Getting Found
Marketing your website is crucial to reaching a wider audience. Including your web address on various marketing materials is a start, but digital marketing can significantly enhance your online presence. Whether through search engines or social media networks, digital marketing can lead potential clients to your brand.
While our company offers digital marketing services, you can also explore your own marketing strategies if you have the time and patience to learn. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, but some form of marketing is essential for visibility.
In Conclusion
Running a website does require time and financial investment, but the benefits it brings to your clients and business make it well worth the effort. If you find the responsibilities overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek help from a professional web developer. Our team at Zee Creative, based in Billings, Montana, is here to support you with all your web, hosting, and digital marketing needs. Together, let’s make your website a successful and powerful marketing asset.