Frequently Asked Questions

What's a content management system (CMS) ?

A content management system is software that keeps track of every piece of content on your Web site. Content can be simple text, photos, music, video, documents, or just about anything you can think of. A major advantage of using a CMS is that it requires almost no technical skill or knowledge to manage. Since the CMS manages all your content, you don't have to.

What CMS can do?

CMS is used to power Web sites of all shapes and sizes. For example:

• Corporate Web sites or portals
• Corporate intranets and extranets
• Online magazines, newspapers, and publications
• E-commerce and online reservations
• Government applications
• Small business Web sites
• Non-profit and organizational Web sites
• Community-based portals
• School and church Web sites
• Personal or family homepages

Who uses CMS?

Here are just a few examples of Web sites that use CMS:

• MTV Networks Quizilla (Social networking) - www.quizilla.com
• Beto Cuevas - www.betocuevas.com
• IHOP (Restaurant chain) - www.ihop.com
• Harvard University (Educational) - gsas.harvard.edu
• Citibank (Financial institution intranet) - Not publicly accessible
• The Green Maven (Eco-resources) - www.greenmaven.com
• Outdoor Photographer (Magazine) - www.outdoorphotographer.com
• PlayShakespeare.com (Cultural) - www.playshakespeare.com
• Senso Interiors (Furniture design) - www.sensointeriors.co.za

How long will it take for my web site to be designed?

The timescale of a website design project is often dictated by the client nad the size of the project. If you have a deadline in mind I will endeavour to meet it for you. The most common delay in the creation and completion of a new website is waiting for content (text/images) to be sent to me by the client.

Will we need to have a meeting in connection with the website design?

If you have a question that is not answered here, or you want to talk to me about any aspect of your website design, setting up or changing your web site, web hosting or website maintenance or domain name registration please feel free to contact me to discuss your requirements.

Will my website design be" Search Engine" friendly?

All our websites are created with search engines in mind and the website design is compliant with search engine guidelines. It is a good idea for your website to be re-evaluated in time as over a period of time the search engines do alter their rules and algorithms and you will want to be certain that your website is kept up to date and complies with new rules etc.

I hear that there are hidden costs associated with web design services. Is this true?

No. I discuss with you your website requirements and then price accordingly and once you have placed an order for your website design with me, that price is strictly adhered to.

Do I need a database on my website?

This will depend upon the amount of information you wish to be displayed on your website. If you have many products/services, then it may be advantageous to have a database incorporated into your website design. I will discuss this in detail with you and if a database is advised I will explain in detail exactly how this will work. I can tailor your website design to suit your specific requirements.

Will everyone see my web site the same?

Your website visitors will see some things differently depending on their browser, screen resolution setting and their individual computer settings and toolbars. I design sites with that in mind and preview them in several browser types and resolution settings before publishing. Obviously as technology alters then eventually all websites may need reevaluation.

Can I get e-mail with my website?

Yes you can have email and you will probably wish you set-up several email addressed e.g. This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Can you provide all our web design and hosting services?

No - I don't provide hosting, but we can suggest and do all the process to contract one. I can register your domain name - design your website - suggest your web hosting and arrange your email accounts for you.

Do you guarantee that my site will always be available?

No web hosting service can guarantees 100% uptime. However I can say that our suggest hosting companies have had 99.9% up time for many years.

When can I update my website content?

If the website I have designed for you includes a Content Management System then you can access your administration areas from anywhere as long as you have an internet connection and make updates instantly as frequently as you wish. If your website is a smaller website and was designed without using this type of system and you don't have any html. skills, then I can update the website for you. Our charges are very reasonable..

Is there any training provided with the Content Management System - CMS?

The Content Management Systems really are very easy to use and our tutorial center included all videos necessary. However if at any time you have any questions I'm available at the end of the telephone to run through the procedures or answer any queries you may have

How much will a website cost me?

The cost of a web site varies depending on the site and complexity. A small web site with just a few static pages would cost around US$900 whereas a full ecommerce website with a large number of pages and a CMS system could start at US$1800. If you contact me I will be please the discuss with your website design requirements and give you a fixed quotation.

How can I accept credit cards on my website?

There are various methods availably to you. I would need to talk to you to established you requirements and the best method for your company. There are essentially two main methods of accepting credit cards. The first method is where you use your own pdq. card machine and process the card payment yourself and the second method uses an online clearance company. Once you are sure which method you wish to use, I can design your website accordingly

Do you display any banners or pop-up ads on my website?

Absolutely not! - It's your website and you have total control over the contents and who advertises on it. The only reference to our company is at the end of your site with a "powered by Richard Degregorio".

How many pages can I have on my web site?

As many as you like. From a search engines point a view - The more the better!

Who owns the website once the website design is completed?

The website belongs to you, you have a full access to the hosting control panel to create backups. This backup is for your retention and should you wish to use another web design or web hosting company - you are completely at liberty to take this copy to them for them to use