Getting Online
digital-blues will work with you to get your website up and running in no time. The following information has been provided to help you understand some of the different types of websites we can build for you, as well as some of the necessary elements that go into building a website.
Domain Names
A Domain name is your address on the web (i.e www.yourcompany.com). We can obtain one for you or handle your existing one.
Domain names are purchased for a given term in years. A domain name must be renewed before the end of that term to ensure that you will remain its owner.
If digital-blues.com obtains your domain name, we'll manage the renewals for you.
Web Hosting
For your website and email to work properly, it needs to be stored on a web server. The server stores all your files so they can be browsed by other computers via the internet.
This includes web space and email.
You can also see detailed information about how many hits and visits your website is getting with the statistics module built into our servers.
Web Design and Custom Development
There are a few different types of sites that we can design for you.
Managed Sites
A Managed (static) site would be ideal for someone who does not intend to update the website on a regular basis. A Managed site will be visually customized to your needs, and will act as an online brochure that displays your hobby or business to the world with an eye catching look and feel.
Managed with Flash Elements
A Managed site with Flash Elements is the same as a Managed site mentioned above with the exception of added animation. This could be an animated introduction to the website, or an added photo gallery. Moving banners and logos can capture your viewers' attention for a longer period of time. These types of sites are more expensive than regular static sites due to the time it requires to build the graphics and animate them.
Flash websites
A Flash website is a website built entirely using flash animation and can include, but is not limited to, the flash elements stated above. Full Flash websites can include animation across the entire layout of the website, are graphically intense and usually include some interesting transitions between content selection via animated navigation.
Client Managed(CMS)
Client Managed CMS (dynamic) sites use a Content Management System (CMS). A CMS makes it easy for users to manipulate their website from their web browsers from anywhere in the world.
The look and feel of this site is derived from a template. Templates can be customized to suit your needs or we can create a template for you from scratch. we also include training with all of our Dynamic site quotes as well as provide a cheat sheet for you based on what areas of the site you will be accessing most often to update.
eCommerce
eCommerce websites are client manageable online stores complete with the ability to display product information, allow customer purchases online and keep track of order and customer information. We can build your online store from scratch based on your specific requirements or we can use a highly customizable open source shopping cart software package to create your online storefront.
Web Application
A Web Application is a website that has special functionality customized to your needs. Adding the ability to search, sort and filter data, as well as upload files and provide special online services. These services could be anything from accepting job applications online, to displaying a product list that you manage yourself. There are already many types of readily available web applications that we're prepared to setup and customize for you, including web gallery's and online shops (eCommerce).
Time Frame and Cost
The cost of the project is directly related to the time it takes to build it. The amount of time that it takes will depend on a few things. But guaranteed with your cooperation on the below areas the timeline determined will be followed.
Participation
Projects are often delayed as we wait for feedback or content, so the quicker you respond the quicker we can move ahead. In order to exceed your expectations we need you to be a part of the design team as often as possible.
Fabrication
When there has been little or no content provided to us, then we need to create some from the information that we have. This can greatly affect the time frame and the cost of your website. If you are having trouble putting together the information regarding your company for the website, give us a call. We will send a writer over to gather the information and come up with some content that will work well not only for your company, but for search engine optimization (so you are found on sites such as Google).
Conversion
Some content is given to us in non-electronic format or in a non-standard electronic format. This can take a great deal of time to convert into an acceptable format. Let us know if you are having trouble getting electronic content and we will see if we can help or if you simply want to know what format is best.
Organization
It is best to have all of the project content before construction has begun. Having the content ahead of time is most effective for the timeline and will often allow your site to be completed ahead of schedule.
Structure
Knowing the categories (or menu) that you will require, will greatly reduce the amount of time needed to design and construct the site. Try to think of the menu items and the pages they link to.
Requirements Gathering Meetings
We will need to schedule a meeting to gather the requirements for your project. You should bring all of the images and content for your project in electronic format. At this meeting we will talk about the visual, textual and functional aspects of your project.
A great way to prepare for this meeting is to have a look through our online portfolio or at any website out there. Take note of any websites that stands out. Ask yourself questions such as; do you like the menu position and size?, what about the colors?, is the website easy to use?, does this website have any animated effects on it?
You can also visit our online Web Design Questionnaire to help you determine what your needs are for your online web presence.
Acceptable Electronic Formats for Content
Content should always be provided in some type of electronic format that we can work with. If you're not sure if we accept a certain format, please contact us and we can let you know.
website Updates
From time to time you may want us to make changes to your website. You can either request changes by scheduling a meeting to discuss it in person, or by sending a detailed email with the required attachments to Once submitted, someone from our team will get back to you with the cost and timeline for completion of your updates.
