(This timeless gem was written in 1997, part of our original website. We keep it around because it inspires us. Maybe it wil inspire you?)

As the Internet has evolved the makeup of the web site has changed considerably. In the initial rush to publish many site owners forgot basic elements of business that apply as much to the Internet as to any business there is. Basically that is that a business must fulfill a need. If it doesn't, just why would anyone bother to visit in the first place?

So a web site really isn't just a collection of web pages, no matter how nicely done. It is a statement of the manner in which your business is run. The impression that you maintain with your audience will determine the volume of success your site will have, more than state of the art gizmo that blips and bleeps it's way across the screen.

First and foremost, any web site should pay attention to what the marketplace is lacking. Any type of business can thrive on the Internet if it is a good resource for the audience it is seeking. By offering solid content as well as products, a web based business gains credibility as experts in their field, and gains trust as the result. And with trust, sales of products and services are a result.

It really cannot be stressed enough that a web based business is no different than any other. Remember that your web site and everything you put into it is a reflection of your company. How impressed are you to receive a prompt reply to an email? Even if it is a quick note, it shows that you cared enough to immediately respond. What would happen to a business that never answered their calls, never added new products, or never dusted the shelves? I doubt they would have much repeat business, if any at all. The same applies to a web site.

The elements of a successful web site generally include organization, solid content, and a style that reflects what the web site is all about. The best way to determine what your web site needs, is to check out the competition, and see what they are up to. With the best elements of all, and a few original concepts, your web site can be the benchmark that others try to achieve.

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