In this issue:
- 5.5 Ways to Save on Your Website
- About Web Insights
Issue 5original publication: August 24, 2001
last updated: February 10, 2004
Feature Article:
5.5 Ways to Save on Your Website
by Deborah Christie, POP Interactive
1.0 Save On Hosting
Hosting companies frequently offer discounts if you commit to longer contract periods. In addition, many hosting companies continue to add new account plans. So if your hosting is outsourced we suggest asking your provider about discounts and lower cost plans that might meet your needs.
Typically, shared hosting costs range from $25/mth to $150/mth based on your requirements. Dedicated, managed and co-located hosting costs vary significantly based on your needs.
Hosting Company Lists and Reviews:
2.0 Save On Domain Names
Similiar to hosting providers, some domain registrars offer savings if you renew your domain for a longer period. For example, Network Solutions offers 10%-40% discounts based on the renewal period.
In addition, not all registrars charge the same fees. So next time you are renewing your domain name, consider renewing it for several years instead of one or two -- and also consider shopping around.
Domain Registration Resources:
3.0 Save Time & Improve Customer Service With Autoresponders
Autoresponders allow you to send instant confirmations and messages to your visitors when they complete an online form or send you an email. They are one of the best tools for saving time and providing great customer service -- and they are easy to set up. If you are currently not using them in conjunction with your site, we strongly recommend you implement them.
You can set them up:
- By simply using rules in Outlook (or your email application)
- Through your hosting service (if they offer autoresponders)
- As part of the functionality of your online forms
Autoresponder Articles and Resources:
4.0 Use Free Streaming Content
This topic was covered in our last newsletter. If you missed it, you can view it online at:
5.0 Use Your Website Statistics to Save
Understanding your site traffic can help you identify where you can get the greatest return on your investment as well as areas of your site that might not be worth investing in.
The articles below provide tips on interpreting your site statistics:
5.5 Tools for Reviewing Your Web Statistics
A good place to start is with your hosting provider. Many offer access to tools for analyzing your statistics.
In addition, assembled below is a list of software and online tools designed to assist you with this process:
More Affordable:
Higher-End:
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