Internet Marketing for Small Business: creating your website:

A Word About HTML ....

We're going to have a look at some website creation tools which make it very easy for you to publish your site to the Web without any knowledge of the dreaded HTML (that's the coded language used behind the scenes for writing web pages). However, whatever software you use to create your web site, sooner or later you'll find it very useful to have at least a basic knowledge of html.

Don't panic - you don't need to know any; you'll just find life easier if you do.

There is a free 29-lesson course which you can follow at Writing HTML - or you can download the whole course as a 330-page PDF document here.

But let me repeat: you don't need to know any html. You can build a website perfectly well without knowing any. But if you take the time and trouble to learn just a little, you'll have more control over the appearance of your website .. and you'll be able to add extra tweaks.

"How Do I Put My Website Up On The Web?"

That will depend who you've chosen to host your site.

Site Build It

One option we looked at on the Hosting page was Site Build It. If you use Site Build It, you won't actually need anything else. Just follow the instructions and you can hardly go wrong.

There's a lot to be said for Site Build It. I use it myself for one of my sites. There are some restrictions, so make sure you're happy about that. But their service really is a one-stop shop - and amazing value for money.

You can visit the site by clicking on Site Build It (a new window will open).

Third Sphere

Another option we looked at was Third Sphere. I also use them for one of my sites. The package of tools and support they offer is top notch - and even includes facilities for an ecommerce store. And there's a website builder included to get you started.

You can visit the site by clicking on Third Sphere (a new window will open).

Website Creation Software: XSitePro

If you're really serious about using the internet as a marketing tool, I would recommend that you use alternative website creation software rather than the website builders provided by some hosting companies. The software of choice for serious marketers is - without a doubt - XSitePro. And you can easily combine this with Third Sphere's hosting service.

XSitePro is a relatively new piece of software. It is significantly less expensive than the big brand names, and it has been put together specifically for people who are using the web as a marketing tool. Have a look at the demonstration at the XSitePro website, and you'll see how straightforward it is to use.

By the way, this site has been built using XSitePro. (clicking here will open a new window).

"What Should I Put On My Website?"

Now we come to a very important part of the process - covered on the next page: Copywriting