What are the benefits and responsibilities of having a website?

Deciding if a web site is right for your business may be one of the more critical decisions you will have to make. This decision should not be taken lightly. Business owners should consider four questions while doing their website feasibility study.

How big is the whole market for your product or service?

How big is a slice of your target market can you expect to capture via the Internet?

Have you tested your assumptions? Are your customers likely to buy your products online?

Is your business really different from your online competitors’, and can you sustain that difference after unveiling your plans?

Having an Internet presence requires more than just placing a site in cyberspace. There are responsibilities associated therewith that companies cannot ignore. Websites require maintenance and continuous improvement. Keep the content fresh and current. Companies could use a "What’s New" or a "Preview of Coming Attractions" section to accomplish this objective. The site should also monitor feedback to ensure that the site considers its customers needs. Finally, don’t forget about advertising! Without advertising, your audience won’t know where to reach you.

Taking your business online may mean converting your customers from brick-and-mortar selling to e-commerce. A technology CEO gives advice on how to do it right.

"Making the Jump Online"

Studies have shown that business owner’s opinions on establishing a web presence have increased. From 1996 to 1998, the number of them with some online presence jumped from 21% to 41%, according to the Small Business Administration. One-size-fits-all marketing strategies are doomed to fail. New research finds small businesses’ attitudes toward using the web vary greatly.

"Are you an 'Evangelist' or an 'Integrator'"?

Click here to view the summary of poll results that describe how and why (or why not) business owners turn to the web.

Back to e-Business Resource Guide homepage

Find a word in the glossary

Contact an SBTDC counselor

Return to the SBTDC homepage