Help, I don't understand what all these web terms mean!

We are here to answer your questions. Questions are always encouraged, and we answer them in terms that real people understand. Please use our Web Term Glossary below to explain any unfamiliar terms.

Admin or Administrator
This term generally refers to someone who is in charge of managing a website. Administrator could be used as another word for webmaster.

CMS or Content Management System
A Content Management System, such as Joomla or Wordpress, allows you to change your own website content without the need of a web developer. A CMS also can reduce the need for custom programming by utilizing existing plugins and addons. They also can allow for a large number of people to contribute and share information through a website.

Database
Databases are used to store information. Most websites that have a Content Management System store your website information in a database. They interact dynamically with your website to display information to your visitors.

Domain Name or URL
A domain name is your online address on the internet. It is the online equivalent of a physical mailing address. For example: www.yourcompany.com.

eCommerce
Short for "Electronic Commerce", it is the act of buying and selling over electronic systems such as the internet. It also includes the entire process of developing, marketing, selling, delivering, servicing and paying for products/services online. Learn more about Ecommerce.

Hosting
Web hosting is like a storage unit. With a typical storage unit, you fill it with your personal belongings. You rent the unit from a company that promises to keep your belongings safe and secure. Website hosting is similar, it is your online storage unit. You fill it with your belongings such as your website files. Each time someone visits your domain name (www.yourname.com), the contents of your online storage unit are displayed online. A website hosting company makes it possible for your website to be accessible 24/7 online. Learn more about Web Hosting in our Blog.

QR Code
This term stands for "Quick Response" Code. Learn more All about QR Codes in our Blog.

SEO or Search Engine Optimization
It is a fancy name for the process of making a website display higher in the results of search engines. When you do a search in Google or Bing, the goal is to have your website display as high as possible in the free (unpaid or natural) search results on particular keywords. Learn more about All About Search Engine Optimization in our Blog.

Website
A website is a collection of individual webpages that gather and display information to the visitor.

Widget
A web widget is a small application that can be embedded into a website. It is essentially the code needed to run specific tools on a website without any coding.

WWW
This stands for World Wide Web, a term used to describe the internet.

Why do I need a website?

Your website is your first opportunity to make a good impression. If you have a business, you need a website.

What should I expect during my free initial consultation?

The initial consultation is simply a conversation. We want to learn about you and your company. We'll discuss your needs, your wants, and your overall marketing plan. Every website needs a purpose or goal. In addition, we will isolate how we can best appeal to and reach your target market. Determining your desired budget will be necessary so we can decide what solutions best fit your needs. By reviewing the types of websites that you like, we will get a good feel for what style website you are looking for. At your request, we will provide you with a detailed proposal to serve as the starting point of your project. Questions are always encouraged, and we answer them in terms that real people understand.

Call us today at 434-882-0604 to schedule your Free Initial Consultation!

How will I know how to use my new website?

We will personally teach you how to use your Content Management System. Every website we build includes a Training Session where you will learn how to use the different features of the CMS. You'll be given a custom instruction manual to help you remember how to use the system after your training is over. If you ever need help or forget how to do something, just call us and we will be happy to assist you.

Who owns the completed website?

Once full payment has been received, we will provide you with all of the access logins for your website. You are the full owner of the website.

Can you help me pick a domain name?

Yes, we can help you decide on the best domain name for your business and register it. (www.yourbusinessname.com)

Do I need to hire a local web design firm?

No, in fact many of our clients are located across the country. We are located near Charlottesville, Virginia and are happy to meet with you in person if possible. We serve all of the Central Virginia area including Charlottesville, Ruckersville, Madison, Greene, Harrisonburg, Wintergreen, Richmond, and other surrounding areas.

What is the difference between Blue Cloud Live and a Custom Website?

Check out our Blue Cloud Live vs Custom Website comparison sheet to help you understand the differences. Need more details? Call us at 434-882-0604.

end faq