[ 4 - questions and answers ]

If I have decided that I want a web site, how do I get started ?
The process is actually quite simple. After initial consultation you would send us all the content, including a logo, that you would like to have included on your site. If you know the layout that you would like for your site, you would include a sketch or a written description along with the content. Alternatively, you might want to send us some links to sites that you like. This would give us a general idea of your expectations. Note: that we do not replicate the design of sites created by others. Another option is to simply let us create a design we believe will suit the content of your site.

What is "hosting" a site. Do I need it?
Every web site sits on a computer (also called a server) which has been specially set up to allow other computers to call up your web site twenty-four hours a day. If your web site does not sit on one of these computers, it cannot be accessed by anyone other than yourself. It would be similar to creating a product and just having it sit in your living room, instead of placing it in a store. So yes, your site will have to be placed, hosted, on someone else's machine.

Do you provide hosting?
Only indirectly. concreteorange does not run its own server. We have arrangements with local companies with whom we have worked over the years, and are thereby in a position to offer you a package deal.

Can I look for my own hosting? Is there a cheaper way?
Yes you can. There are literally thousands of companies that host web sites. You may choose to sign up with any of them and we will publish your web site up to their server. There are also companies which will host your site for free in exchange for placing advertising on your web site. This approach is highly discouraged for business sites, since it cheapens the overall look of your web site. They are, however, a viable option, for private sites. Note: hosting fees are an ongoing expense and have to be paid on a yearly basis.

Do I need a Domain Name?
Theoretically no. Practically, however, you should have a domain name so that visitors can easily recall your site name. To find out if your chosen domain name is still available please check here. Note: you likely will have to try various permutations before hitting on one that has not been taken by somebody else. Once you have found one that is still available, you can either reserve it right then and there, or you can let us do it for you. The price is the same. Domain names, too, will have to be renewed on a yearly basis, although you can pay for a set period in advance.

What happens if I don't have a logo?
No problem. We will create one for you at a modest price. Alternatively, you might want to hire a proven logo design specialist .

Can you design an on-line store?
Yes. Please contact us for quotes.

If I want to update my site, will I have to hire you?
No. For clients with computer experience, updating is quite easy to do. You can either change your web site on your own computer, then publish the changes up to the server. Alternatively, we recommend that you buy a copy of Macromedia's contribute. For a small fee, we will help you set it up. It takes only a short time to learn and will allow you to change the web-site without the danger of disturbing the overall design of the site.
Another option is for us to set up your site using content management tools such as this one, which allows clients to update their web-site from any computer in the world. There is, however, a cost associated with this kind of product.