The failure of so many E-Commerce web sites in the recent past have left many wondering whether the internet is a good place to do business. The Internet isn't the "get rich quick" environment it was thought to be. It is just another way to expand and do business. Expectations need to be more realistic and in line with a good business plan. With some careful shopping and research it is possible to create and maintain a profitable business on the Internet. Here's how to get started.

Before you start creating an E-Commerce website:

• Choose a product that is unique and is not already oversold on the net.

• Compare basic product cost to retail price to come up with the amount of money you can spend selling it on the internet and make a profit.
  

• Use a search engine to find your competitors and what they are charging for similar products. Use Dogpile.com to search more than 10 search engines at once.

Creating your website:

• Keep your site attractive but as basic as possible. Buyers just want to see your product and buy it. You can make improvements later when you begin to make a profit.
  

• You may want to have help creating your website then maintain it yourself with an easy, inexpensive website editing program like FrontPage.  Either way, HomeLand Web can teach you to run your website for only $25.00 an hour.
  

• Buy an inexpensive digital camera or scanner to photograph your own products.

Put your site on the Internet:

• Use an inexpensive website host to test the viability of your website.
  Website Hosting and Domains Names at GoDaddy.com

• Pick from 1000's of templates .
  

• Create a domain name that is short and easy to remember. provides ideas that match your business name. Using your internet provider's free space is an option but creates a long, difficult address.
  

• Use the FREE Shopping Cart service offered by  PayPal.com and avoid expensive monthly fees. They provide a FREE, secure, complete payment system so you can accept credit cards from your website.

Promote your website:

• Submit your site to only the top 3 or so search engines. The others exist only to get your email address. Companies like Yahoo charge over $200.00 to get listed but there are ways to get around that.
  

• Place an ad in your local newspaper or product magazine.
  

• Put your domain name and e-mail address on your business card, letterhead, and any other advertising media you use.

Remember:

• Business may be slow until your website becomes established and people get your web address.

• Always protect your computer from VIRUSES with McAffee.com.

• Stay informed with a good internet newsletter. Try Arelis Newsletter.

• Create an E-mail address especially for Junk Mail and use it when you sign up for free or inexpensive services. They are free because they sell your email address to spammers. It seems to be a fair exchange. Use a special E-mail address for family and important business contacts.

• We are happy to help you with all or any part of your Website.

HomeLand Web Design wants your business to succeed. When our clients are successful, so are we!