Guide to websites

"How do I set up a website for myself or my business?" This is the question we are asked more often than any other, so we thought it would be helpful to provide a short guide to the process.
Domain names The first step is to make sure you have a domain name and also space on a server which will 'host' your website. Domain names are used in URLs to identify particular web pages. For example, my domain name is surfbird-design.com.  If you don't have a domain name already you need to get one.  To do this go to a site like freeparking.com and look up your choice of name in their search directory.  You may find it takes some time to find a name that is still available!

Domain names are actually 'rented' for a period of between one and ten years.  A .com domain name usually costs around £30 to rent for 2 years and a .co.uk around £10. You must remember to renew your subscription to these names once that time is up.  It is always best to try and get a .com name if possible as well as a .co.uk.  If you are unsure how to proceed with this Surfbird can guide you through the process.

If you have no web hosting space, you will need to rent space with an Internet Service Provider (ISP).  There are hundreds of ISP providers and it is sometimes difficult to know which one to choose.  For more information, including a guide to the top 25 UK providers, have a look at http://uk.tophosts.com/. If you need help deciding we can guide you in the right direction.

Many companies who sell domain names also provide packages with web space and e-mail addresses.  You don't have to buy webspace from the company that registers your domain name, but it can sometimes make life easier. You can also usually get free webspace from your current ISP or broadband provider, but if you are serious about your internet presence the paying services are better and more reliable. 

Web hosting packagesThere are many different types of hosting packages available.  Websites take up a surprisingly small amount of space and 10Mb is usually more than enough for most small to medium-sized businesses.  ISPs typically charge between £35 and £100 a year depending on the size and functionality offered by the package.  Unless you are only interested in a one-page business card it is best to pick a package that includes FTP for ease of use.  FTP is a mechanism that allows you to transfer files from one computer to another.  With the more basic packages that don't use FTP you have to use the provider's own file manager software to upload files one by one. This can end up being very time-consuming if you have a larger site - so avoid if possible!

Can I design the website myself?If you know how to code HTML or have access to a WYSIWYG html editor such as Microsoft FrontPage you can create your website yourself. Many hosts also have their own 'starter packages' with software that will help you create a basic site. However, for a more professional private or business website it is best to enlist the services of a website designer.

How much will Surfbird charge to design my website?
The price of a website depends not only on its size, but also the number and source of the images, the number of interactive components such as forms or search components and the extent of the design and testing phase. As a rough guide, a web page costs about £100 so a 10 to 12 page website will cost about £1000. The cost goes up if content has to be retyped or rewritten from scratch.  If you require professional stock images and picture research this will also increase the cost. 

If you have more extensive changes we can offer a day rate of £300. This would allow enough time to add new content, new pages and images, make design changes, and generally update your site.  If you are unsure how much time is needed please contact us for advice.