I'm going to assume you've either never built a web site before or are new to it – otherwise, chances are slim you'll be reading this. So there are two things you are trying to do here. Learn to build a web site and publish it. Truthfully, the best way to learn building web sites is to arm yourself with a good HTML book or tutorial and have plain old Notepad (which comes with your computer) handy. Going this route, you'll build a skill that will come in handy later on no matter what web site builder you choose.
However, this option is not for everyone as you need to be somewhat motivated to learn the codes, it takes time hand coding pages and it can be very frustrating sometimes because one tiny mistake can render your pages out of whack. So let's look at what you know.
Are you a fairly experienced computer user?
If you are and a little bit of technical stuff doesn't scare you (although not too technical), a desktop based web site builder like XsitePro would be a good choice. Many desktop based web site builders start you off with wizards or simple interfaces. This helps you get your web site started quickly without much geeky detail, but when needed, it can easily switch you over to the advanced views that can help you expand your HTML knowledge.
Not A Technical Person?
So, large technical words make you cringe and the thought of 'coding' alone upsets you... but you still want that web site? Don't worry. There are actually a lot of options available. I highly suggest a online web site builder. It's a good chance you can navigate your way around the Internet fairly well. Web based site builders like Internet Based Family are made to be point and click simple – just like navigating the Web. Also, everything like web hosting (where your web pages are stored online) is already included.
What Else To Consider
So far, I've been talking about site builders with the assumption you'll be building simple 'static' web pages. Meaning, pages that won't change until you update or edit them.
If you want to include interactivity on your web site like message boards, allowing people to leave instant comments, creating a member's only area or even a web store, a regular web site builder may not be sufficient as they require software that need to be installed and run from your web host.
Some web based web site builders also do not offer message boards or shopping carts. Others may require you to pay a premium to add those on. Yet others like Internet Based Family have everything included for one pricing. So you definitely want to compare each service on that if interactivity is important to you.
By now, you should have an idea which type of site builder would suit you, it's time to get building. I hope your web site building experience turns out to be a satisfying one.
Resources:
XSitePro - http://www.techbasedmarketing.com/xsitepro.html
Internet Based Family - http://www.techbasedmarketing.com/internetbasedfamily.html
About The Author:
Lynette Chandler helps entreprenuers leverage readily available technology for their marketing. Learn to apply the power of technology to your marketing today http://www.TechBasedMarketing.com