Getting a new website can be very exciting. It is very tempting to just jump in, but don't overlook the importance of planning. There are key components that can make the difference between your website being great or getting grounded. The checklist below offers helpful tips to get your started with your new website. You can save yourself a great deal of time and money by doing your website right the 1st time around. Create a website that will help your business succeed.

Here is a 5 point checklist for building your new website:

1. Research your industry: You need to have a solid understanding of your target market as well as your competition. Take some time to gather helpful information on both. Make sure your website can stack up against your primary competitors.
   
   
2. Create an outline: Create an outline of the content you want to include on your website. This process should help you determine what pages you need to have on your website.
   
   
3. Obtain graphics for your site: Do not do a Google search and just start saving images you like. You have no idea whether or not the images are protected by a copyright. Purchase the images you want to use on your website so that you do not run into legal issues later.
   
   
4. Take time on your content: Writing great content for your site is important. You don't want to fill your website with fluff or content you copied from a competitor's site. Your content should be engaging, unique, thoughtful and SEO friendly. Your content should also highlight your company's competitive advantages.
   
   
5. Find a trusted web designer: Choosing a well reviewed, highly recommended web designer is important. Look for a professional, full-time designer who has years of experience and is well versed in SEO. Remember, the cheapest does not equal the best and in general you get what you pay for.