CBefore you construct a website, it is important to have a good conceptual
understand of how the the Internet actually works. Using the
very simple diagram below, we have described the key hardware and software
components and how those components interact. Understanding these
fundamental Internet concepts will help you make good decisions regarding
which web creation tool to use, what type of website to create, how to test
it, where to host it and how to publish it and then make it
"visible" on the World Wide Web.
When deciding what type of website you need (i.e. brochure ware, web
application, data driven website), it is important to consider both the
benefits to your business and the initial development and ongoing operating
costs for the site. In general, it is best to take a minimalist
approach.
The first priority must always be to attract visitors. The
"brochure ware" portion of any website plays a key role in this area.
Search Engine "robots" and "spiders" that index websites, are unable to
enter values into form fields or "click" buttons. Consequently,
information stored in databases and made accessible via Internet
applications is often "invisible" to search engines therefore won't be
included in search engine listings.
A very important rule to remember when creating a website is to let your
fundamental business requirements drive the web creation process.
Don't create functionality just because it is technically possible.
You will just waste your money.
