How it works

An editable (content-managed) website means that you are in charge. Once the overall design of the site has been agreed, the words and pictures that appear on your pages are up to you, and you can change them instantly, whenever you like. Below are the main features of my bespoke, content-managed websites:

Unlimited pages

Here's a little secret: In a good website every page is based on the same standard template, which means that designing 10 pages takes no more time than designing one page. That's why (unlike some) I don't charge you based on the number of pages your site needs.

Your bespoke website can have an unlimited number of 'standard' pages containing text, pictures, links and file downloads (including music and video). Most of the things you'll ever need to say on your website, from the overview of your business to your price lists, can be displayed on one of these standard pages.

I can also provide any of the following as required:

  • News page with RSS feed, so that visitors can keep up to date with your latest news even when they're not currently browsing your site. You can also choose to display the latest headlines in a News Flash on every page of your site.
  • Calendar of Events, viewable a month at a time or displaying all upcoming events at on a single page.
  • Forums with optional visitor logins. You can choose to make your forums accessible to everyone, or have your visitors log in before they can use them.
  • Photo Galleries with optional photo captions and gallery descriptions.
  • Mailing list where your visitors can sign up to receive your newsletters or special offers by email.
  • Guestbook with the option to notify you by email whenever a new message is left.
  • Contacts page with email forms to keep your email address hidden from spammers. Also useful if you don't want your site visitors to know your personal email address.
  • Site Map with quick links to all the pages in your site (useful for larger, more complicated sites).

I am also happy to quote for more complex custom applications including shopping carts and other e-commerce facilities.

Always Up To Date

login.gif All sites include a password-protected admin area. By logging in you can edit the text, pictures and hyperlinks on any of your pages. You can also upload files (such as music or documents) for your visitors to download. You can even create entirely new pages, and control the way the pages link to each other.

If you're likely to have more than one person updating your site, you can create additional user accounts, giving each user different privileges. For example you might want to keep control over the creation of pages and the overall site map, but let someone else update the photo gallery or add events to the calendar.

Professional Design

design.gif The visual design of your site will be tailored to your unique requirements. If you already have a logo, photos, or even an existing website that needs a makeover, I can base the design on these. Alternatively, if you have no idea what you would like, I can come up with a preliminary design as a starting point for discussion, or liaise with a graphic designer appointed by you.

All designs follow the W3C's guidelines for accessibility, ensuring that your site is usable by visitors with disabilities. I also make use of tried and tested style guidelines to ensure that your message is delivered loud and clear to all your visitors.

Easy To Use

editing.gif Updating the text on your site is as easy as using a word processor. Once logged in, you click a button next to the section you wish to edit, and you can format the text using the familiar toolbar buttons. Adding pictures, files and hyperlinks is just as straightforward.

Even if you're already computer-savvy, you will still benefit from your website's intuitive administration tools. No need for special software, so you can update your site in any internet cafe in the world. If you know some HTML, there is even the option to enter the tags directly for extra freedom. Needless to say, I practise what I preach: I update this website using the same content management system that I provide for my clients.

No Fuss

domain.gif Your website will be provided all set up and running including hosting. If you already have a domain name (eg www.myname.co.uk), this can usually be pointed at your new site. Alternatively, I'm happy to organise the purchase and renewal of a new domain name.