Understanding Web Host Plans: 7 Terms to Know
When picking out web hosting one runs across some terminology that they should be aware of. Shared hosting is where one web server box handles hundreds/thousands of websites. This is a practical solution if websites on server use little bandwidth. Linux hosting mostly likely is something you want to make sure your web hosting offers. Linux is needed for many web development tools and web sites that use PHP and most other programming codes. If Linux is not used by your web host then windows hosting is usually the alternative. Windows hosting is required if sites employ Microsoft specific tools. Windows hosting is more expensive than Linux. VPS hosting or virtual private server is usually used for higher traffic sites. Your website is the only one that runs on this server but equipment is shared. Dedicated hosting is where one computer hosts just your site. This is an expensive option. Managed hosting has staff members to keep an eye on your website. Colocation is similar to dedicated hosting but you provide the hardware and software giving you complete control over the site.
How to Pick a Good Web Hosting Service?
A web host is a company that will store your files on its servers. Web hosting has a varied pricing scheme depending on storage capacity, RAM, CPU power, databases and email accounts. Next you must look at which type of hosting fits your needs, shared, dedicated or Virtual. Look into the pros and cons of each type with your application use. A provider that offer a 24/7 customer service is a good thing too. Be careful of “unlimited bandwidth” claims that truly aren’t unlimited. Linux based servers are a popular pick over Windows base servers. Window servers are more expensive and usually picked when using windows based applications. All these factors need to be considered when picking web hosting.
Getting Started with Content Management Systems
A content management system allows you to create, manage, store and edit massive amounts of content for a website without any HTML programming skill. A business should consider a CMS-based website if they are constantly updating content, contains over 10 pages or they are frequently outsourcing simple website updates. There are three common key elements to every CMS, templates, content and meta data. Meta tags are often over looked but are needed to help with search engine optimization. Standard CMS features and functions include publishing, typography, organization, member management and security. There are also multiple plug-ins which can be added to CMS to improve its value and functionality. Some plug-ins available includes blogging, e-commerce, discussion forums, photo galleries, video management, multi-language support, newsletters, statistics/tracking and RSS feeds. With the right combination of features, you can create a website that fits your business plan and helps your company achieve its goals.
Are Viral Marketing Tactics the Right Choice for My Small Business?
Viral marketing is a method of product promotion that relies on getting customers to market and idea, product or service on their own by telling friends about it thru the internet. This form of marketing can be very inexpensive choice for any size business. The most successful viral campaigns are established with an “all about the audience” approach. The business’s product and services are given a backseat. Viral marketing success is based on the ability to think outside of the box. Having a sense of humor about your brand and its character is a great way to gain views and entertain a wider audience. Pranks have become an easy and successful way for viral marketing. Another trend for viral marketing is to inspire loyalty and challenge perception. These two techniques demonstrated viral success. I have really enjoyed these different videos and did not realize how widespread viral marketing was until this class.
Experiential 101: What is Experiential Marketing?
Experiential marketing is a form of guerilla marketing, is advertising that focuses on helping the consumer experience the brand. Instead of verbally or visually promoting a brand, experiential marketing tries to invoke many of the human senses with their product and their consumer. In the end the consumer has drawn am memorable and emotional experience with that brand. The brand stands out in the consumers mind. This will also promote customer loyalty and influence purchase decision. The example the article cited took place in London where advertisers created a DRose Jump Store. Shoes were placed on a ledge 10 feet high from the ground, the same height as a regulation basketball hoop. A participant could win a $100 pair of shoes if they could jump to get them. Whether the person won a pair of shoes or not it was an experience they will always remember. Another buzz factor for the promotion was that Derrick Rose was there to promote the event.