Web for Writers 101, Part 4 – “Do-It-Yourself” Web Design programs

Hi Everybody,

If you remember, last time we talked about how to decide on a color scheme for your website. This time, we’ll tackle finding a good “do-it-yourself” web design program.

Enjoy!

Part 4 – “Do-It-Yourself” Web Design Programs

Rita: Hi Thomas! Well, we’re halfway through our interview now. Thanks for all the information you’ve given us so far. Now we’re hoping you’ll name some good web design programs that writers might use to establish a web presence.

Thomas: There are so many programs out there that its hard to pinpoint just one. I think “Website Tonight,” which you get when you order hosting through GoDaddy.com, is probably your best bet. Then there is Broderbond’s PrintShop series. PrintShop is very cost-efficient, and provides a range of page layouts and clipart. But like we discussed last time, if you don’t have a good eye for design, these types of programs can be more damaging than beneficial.

TIP #7 – Design programs like “Website Tonight” and Broderbond’s Printshop Series are great, but if you don’t have an eye for design, these types can be more damaging and beneficial.

Rita: I always thought these programs were designed to do it all for you. Why do you say they can be damaging?

Thomas: Let’s go back to my “party” analogy. You may have gotten your party outfit from JC Penny’s, but your cologne may have come from Macy’s. The same applies to a successful web presence. It’s possible to get everything from one place, but it’s very rare for this to happen. Don’t expect for web building software or free web themes to give you everything you need. In other words, you may be off to a good start, but you may still not have everything you need for a professional web presence.

Rita: So what should you do, in this case?

Thomas: Well, you may have the tools to get you started, but you may still need to employ an expert to optimize your site for better rankings. Or you may need a graphics specialist to design your logo or web theme.

Rita: You’re right, website building software is great, but the themes are pretty generic. To have “presence” like we talked about a few days ago, I suppose you’ll need some custom programming.

Thomas: Probably. My personal advice would be to stay away from web building software and do it all yourself, if you’re capable. But if you’re not, hire a professional to do it for you. That way your web presence will be YOUR web presence, not something generic that hundreds of others may have.

TIP #8 – Don’t expect web-building software or free web themes to give you everything you need. You may have to employ an expert to optimize your site for better rankings, or a graphics specialist to design your logo or web theme.

Well, that’s all for Part 4 everyone. Remember, you can reach Thomas at: Thomashubbard.net.

Be sure to tune in next time for:
Part 5, How Much Should a Decent Website Cost?

Best wishes and happy writing!

Rita Lorraine