Web Design and Site Redesign

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Show Notes
This podcast episode 031 entitled Web Design and Site Redesign is for small business website owners considering a site makeover. Site performance and keeping visitors on your site longer may be enhanced with a refreshing look including new and original quality content. Here is the outline for today's program:

• Reasons for Web Design or Redesign Site Makeover
• Planning the Redesign of a Small Business Website
• Decisions About Web Design Code Standards per W3C
• Upgraded Graphics in a New Custom Website Design
• Web Design and Search Engine Optimization Strategy
• Website quick tip of the day - 301 Redirect to Salvage File Names

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Web Design and Site Redesign
0:08:30 Tip of the Day - 301 Redirect to Salvage File Names
0:11:28 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:11:58 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 031

Referenced links:
Web Design Quality Assurance manual for web design standards at W3C
Free PDF SEO Tutorial and audio version on my podcast

The quick tip in this episode includes instructions for doing a 301 redirect of old file names to new file names. This allows site owners to recycle website page file names during a redesign and is especially important for web design and search engine optimization puposes based on the age of recycled pages.

TAGS: advice podcast seo search engine optimization web design

Small Business Blogging Tips

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Show Notes
This podcast episode 030 entitled Small Business Blogging Tips provides updated advice for small business bloggers. Here is the outline for today's program:

• Review of Blogs in Small Business Web Design
• Life Cycle of Majority of Blogs
• Blog Post Quality versus Quantity
• Mistakes Observed from Existing Clients
• Easy Solutions to Keep Writing Blog Posts
• Website Quick Tip of the Day - Writers Block and Your Blog

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Small Business Blogging Tips
0:10:59 Tip of the Day - Writers Block and Your Blog
0:12:10 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:40 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 030

Referenced links:
Blog Writing Tips article for small business websites

This episode includes additional tips for small business owners who find it difficult to maintain their blog. By adding quality original content often to any web design, blogs provide an easy method to enhance site performance with more search traffic and potential business.

TAGS: advice podcast blogging blog writing web design

Web Design Philosophy in Flash

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Show Notes
This podcast episode 029 entitled Web Design Philosophy in Flash provides feeback based on a recent new custom web design nearing its launch date, and unlike past objections to flash, I now offer flash options for small business owner web design projects. Here is the outline for today's program:

• Evolution of Web Design since 1996
• Advanced Web Design Techniques Using Flash
• CSS Solutions to Replace Flash and Javascript
• Decision to Reverse Web Design Philosophy in Flash
• Future of Flash in Web Design
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Web Design Philosophy in Flash
0:11:19 Tip of the Day - Advanced Web Design Features vs Perfect Code
0:13:09 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:13:39 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 029

Referenced links:
Web video production services and sample flash web design video
CSS gallery of cards and web design css alternative to flash

This episode recognizes the emerging advanced web design options available for small business websites using flash. Besides load time, my major objection in the past had been the difficulty of creating perfect code in xhtml to W3C standards. Using web design in flash entirely still has zero value for seo, or search engine optimization, yet today's program talks about flash used for the benefit of visitors.

TAGS: advice podcast flash search engine optimization seo web design

Web Design Client Interview

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Show Notes
This podcast episode 028 entitled Web Design Client Interview introduces an interview with a new customer and small business owner with a discussion of their CMS, or Content Management System, web design project. Here is the outline for today's program and interview:

• Introduction of Client for CMS Web Design
• Opening Comments and Web Design Project Overview
• Client Preconceptions About Web Design and SEO
• Web Design Project Development and Progress
• Closing Remarks and Web Design Project Launch
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Web Design Client Interview
0:06:41 Tip of the Day - Benefits of a CMS Web Design
0:09:41 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:10:11 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 028

Referenced links:
Vacation Home Rental Website of Darin Vader at SunShinyFlorida.com
CMS web design overview and introduction to CMS benefits.

This episode provides insight into the expectations of a client for a new CMS web design project, and the process from initial contact to website launch. Listeners will learn about working closely with their web design team, and advanced strategy for seo, search engine optimization. Information about training and tutorials explains how a content management system allows small business website owners to add, edit, or delete content without learning html programming code.

TAGS: interview podcast cms content management system search engine optimization seo web design

Web Design SEO Audio Ebook

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Show Notes
The topic for this podcast episode Web Design SEO Audio Ebook is a short course on search engine optimization, or seo, for small business web design, and the show script of this audio ebook is being documented as a PDF for download, also. This tutorial may be used by any website owner, or customers who ordered a web design using my CMS, Content Management System, to learn SEO without further assistance. Here's the outline for today's program and the list of referenced links:

• Key SEO Factors in Web Design
• Web Design and Keyword Research
• Keyword Density and Analysis
• Free SEO Analysis Software
• Web Design and Implementing SEO
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Web Design SEO Audio Ebook
0:19:33 Tip of the Day - Ongoing Web Design and Optimization
0:22:00 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:22:30 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 027

Referenced links:
Episode 27 SEO EBook MP3 for this podcast audio ebook download.
Episode 27 SEO EBook PDF download of this podcast transcript. (zip, 444Kb, 12 pages)
DupeFree Pro software download page for analysis of keyword density

This episode documents strategy for do-it-yourself search engine optimization of keywords for a small business web design. SEO consultants charge $1000's in recurring fees for this same information. With diligence and patience, small business owners can reap the benefits by learning these basics for optimizing their website. Your only investment is your time. Listen now, or download this episode and the PDF ebook transcript to keep. Unlike the audio podcast episode limited to sound, this ebook contains illustrations.

TAGS: advice podcast keywords small business advice search engine optimization seo web design

Web Design with CSS Styling

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 026 entitled Web Design with CSS Styling provides web design lessons on separating content and presentation using CSS, Cascading Style Sheets, and links to resources including a new video and W3C standards for CSS. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Introduction to Web Design and CSS
• Web Design Separating Content and Presentation
• New Video of Web Design in CMS with CSS Styling
• Web Design Standards Authority for CSS at W3C
• Advanced CSS Techniques for Special Effects
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Web Design with CSS Styling
0:09:46 Tip of the Day - Validating Code to W3C Standards
0:12:57 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:13:27 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 026

Referenced links:
Video demo showing CSS and site conversion to new CMS web design
W3C CSS standards and cascading stylesheet resources
W3C CSS online tool for testing CSS to current standards

The video in the reference links demonstrates that by using CSS in a CMS web design, a site owner can input plain text to create new pages in their small business web design, and the cascading style sheet takes care of content arrangement and the color scheme. The importance of valid css and xhtml code in a website design is presented in the tip of the day, plus a link to a free W3C online code validation tool is included above in the referenced links.

TAGS: advice cascading style sheets css podcast small business advice video web design

CMS Web Design Site Conversion

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 025 entitled CMS Web Design Site Conversion is an update to work in progress after deciding to convert my commercial site to a content management system, or cms. Since last week's announcement of updated web design services with an easy to use CMS system for small business owners, I decided to use my main site for the demo. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Introduction to CMS Conversion of This Website
• Tour of Demo Page of New Prototype Home Page
• Experience with Adding New CMS Pages and Content
• Things to Consider Before Choosing a CMS Web Design
• Pages with Zero or Near Zero XHTML Code Errors
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - CMS Web Design Site Conversion
0:09:49 Tip of the Day - Review of HTML Book by Elizabeth Castro
0:11:31 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:01 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 025

Referenced links:
Test Home Page in CMS shows my cms design conversion in progress
JPG Screenshot of CMS Site for listeners to view if they download this episode.

While still in development, the robots text file is temporarily blocking search engine indexing of the demo home page. The demo folder may be deleted once the main site is converted and ready for formal release. The new site web design conversion to CMS makes it easy to add, edit, or delete content, yet the time to complete 70 pages may still take another 1-2 weeks.

TAGS: advice content management system cms podcast small business advice web design

Custom CMS Web Design Demo

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 024 entitled Custom CMS Web Design Demo introduces a new feature in development and an invitation to view work in progress. A content management system, cms, is an effective way for small business owners to manage content on their site. Unlike most cms websites, this new version is streamlined, easy to use, and my design is xhtml with css and zero code errors. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Introduction to CMS Basics for Small Business Owners
• Research on Content Management System Solutions
• Online Demo Project Visit, Current Progress, and Goals
• Audio Tour to Guide Visitors Viewing the Development Site
• New Custom CMS Web Design with Perfect XHTML and CSS Code
• Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Custom CMS Web Design Demo
0:10:15 Tip of the Day - Climbing the CMS Website Learning Curve
0:11:48 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:18 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 024

Referenced links:
Introduction to CMS Custom Website is a glimpse of cms design work in progress

The CMS demo pages are in development, and the robots text file is temporarily blocking search engine indexing until it is ready for formal release. For now, small business owners interested in an easy to use content management solution to add, edit, or delete content from their website are invited to review the project and inquire about a discount from published pricing.

TAGS: advice content management system cms podcast small business advice web design

Website Writing for Profit

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 023 entitled Website Writing for Profit explores ways to use the writing expertise from your original small business website and blog content to create info products as giveaways, or for sale as reports, ebooks, audio courses, or video. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Writing and Small Business Website Promotion
• Distributing Original Information Products Online
• Using Your Articles and Posts for Content
• Production and Delivery of Information Products
• Realistic Expectations and Mistakes to Avoid
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Website Writing for Profit
0:07:37 Tip of the Day - ClickBank and Affiliate Sales
0:10:48 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:11:18 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 023

Referenced links:
ClickBank website introduction and info products marketplace

The idea of becoming rich online by selling info products does require realistic expectations, and the final segment of the main topic helps keep that truth in perspective. Making money in your small business takes hard work, and selling information products online is equally challenging.

TAGS: advice info products podcast clickbank small business advice writing

Blog Format Case Study Review

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 022 entitled Blog Format Case Study Review compares using Blogger and WordPress for creating a small business integrated blog. In a test case study of WordPress as an alternate to Blogger, I chose a personal site to update before adding WP as an option for custom blog design. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Review of Blogger and WordPress Blog Format
• Blog Design and Valid Code per W3C
• Case Study and Test Blog in WordPress
• Plug-in for WordPress Automatic Version Upgrade
• Review of Free Plain Text WP Blog Theme
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Blog Format Case Study Review
0:09:34 Tip of the Day - Installing WordPress on GoDaddy Hosting
0:11:13 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:11:43 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 022

Referenced links:
Test blog in WordPress format on my personal genealogy site
Free Plain Text Theme download from PlainTxt.org
WordPress Version Automated Upgrade Plug-in from Techie-Buzz.com

The referenced links in today's podcast provide two interesting options for people considering a WordPress blog for their small business website. The free plain text theme is highly functional with an uncluttered approach to blog post presentation. The automated upgrade plug-in provides an easy way to update your WordPress blog to the latest revision without having technical expertise.

TAGS: advice blogs podcast blogger small business advice wordpress

Google Webmaster Tools Review

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 021 entitled Google Webmaster Tools Review takes a tour and explains the advantages of free resources for small business website owners. Diagnosis and analysis of your website stats, linking, sitemap, and tools provides great insight into search engine optimization. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Introduction to Google Webmaster Tools
• Online Tour of Webmaster Tools
• Diagnostics, Statistics, Links, Sitemaps, and Tools
• Key Advantages for Small Business Websites
• Analyzing Small Business Website Defects
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Google Webmaster Tools Review
0:10:20 Tip of the Day - Resource for Improving Google Results
0:12:06 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:36 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 021

Referenced links:
Google Webmasters Central introduction to Webmaster Tools
Webmaster Tools Online Tour step by step overview
Reasons for Reporting Paid Links advice from Google Support

Natural linking from related websites provide the best quality backlinks to improve the importance of your website. Our tip of the day and bonus tool offers small business site owners advice for reporting sites involved in the deceptive practice of buying or selling links. Today's tip explains how this can affect and improve meaningful Google search results.

TAGS: advice webmaster tools podcast search engine optimization small business advice web design

Website First Impression Tips

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 020 entitled Website First Impression Tips presents tips on content for establishing a positive first impression and credibility for sole proprietor small business web design. Advice is geared towards "About Us" pages and comparing appropriate content and inappropriate content. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• First Impression and the About Us Page
• Importance of Full Disclosure and Credibility
• Comparison of Appropriate and Inappropriate Content
• Further Explanation of Inappropriate Content
• Small Business Web Design Closing Remarks
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Website First Impression Tips
0:08:38 Tip of the Day - Owner Portraits on Websites
0:10:23 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:10:53 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 020

Additional web design advice includes the decision of having your photograph as a sole proprietor on your website, and different attitudes about image and first impressions.

TAGS: advice about us podcast small business advice web design

Recovering Disputed Websites

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 019 entitled Recovering Disputed Websites presents advice concerning the practice of cybersquatting to assist small business owners who use their name for a website domain to resolve problems in recovering disputed websites. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Definition of Cybersquatting
• Suggestions for Avoiding Cybersquatters
• Website Case Study and Intellectual Property Rights
• International Resources to Recover a Disputed Domain
• Procedure and Cost for Filing a Complaint with WIPO
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Recovering Disputed Websites from Cybersquatting
0:13:02 Tip of the Day - The Related Problem of Typosquatting
0:14:29 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:14:59 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 019

Referenced links:
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), Geneva Switzerland, international body for dispute resolution
WIPO Domain FAQs with advice for disputed websites

In addition to advice for individuals using their personal name for a commercial small business domain, the tip of the day has advice for established companies looking to protect their intangible assets. Today's show and tip of the day provides information and advice covering cybersquatting and typosquatting.

TAGS: advice cybersquatting podcast small business advice typosquatting website registration

Small Business Website Audio

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 018 entitled Small Business Website Audio presents advice for adding audio to your small business website including introductions, podcasts, testimonials, product information, and perhaps entertainment. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Introduction to Audio on Small Business Websites
• Potential Applications for Audio
• Resources for Presenting Audio Multimedia Players
• Basic Equipment for Website Audio Production
• Process for Audio Planning, Production, and Presentation
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Small Business Website Audio
0:08:15 Tip of the Day - Voice Talent for Small Business Audio
0:9:48 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:10:18 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 018

Referenced links:
1 Pixel Out freeware audio player for websites
Audio script advice on my main site

Today's show provides enough information and resources for small business website owners to quickly add audio to enhance their online presence with quality content in audio format. Plan first and then get used to the production, and presentation of your audio becomes easier with time and experience.

TAGS: advice audio podcast small business advice tutorial website design

Blog Social Bookmarks Tutorial

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 017 entitled Blog Social Bookmarks Tutorial presents advice for adding social bookmarks to your Blogger small business blog or podcast. The graphics and links to online social bookmarking services are easily added to your blog template, and the downloads include a written tutorial, copy and paste code, plus all of the graphics as displayed below posts on this podcast. Here's the outline for today's program:

• Introduction to Blog and Podcast Social Bookmarks
• Comparison of Hosting on Blogger or Your Website
• Tutorial for New Blogger Hosted on Blogger
• Tutorial for New Blogger Hosted on Your Domain
• Social Bookmark Tutorial Downloads with Free Graphics
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Blog Social Bookmarks Tutorial
0:10:03 Tip of the Day - BlogFlux Directory and Ping Services
0:11:27 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:11:57 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 017

Referenced links:
Hosted on Blogger tutorial download link for New Blogger social bookmarks (Zip folder - 12Kb)
Hosted on your domain tutorial download link for New Blogger social bookmarks (Zip folder - 12Kb)
BlogFlux blog directory website including free ping services for members

Today's show provides links to download complete instructions for step by step template revision of your blog or podcast to add social bookmarks. Two versions of the tutorial are presented depending on your hosting. Blogger hosted blogs are modified in "Layout" while "Template" is used if hosting on your domain, so choose the download appropriate for your blog or podcast.

Note: You do not have to register or reveal your email address to download these free resources. Each zip folder contains 12 social bookmark graphics and 1 plain text file with how-to text and sample html code.

TAGS: advice blog bookmarks podcast small business advice tutorial website design

Website Contact Information

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 016 entitled Website Contact Information presents a web design subject not covered previously and offers advice for enhancing the reputation of a small business website. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Small Business Website Contact Info Introduction
• Formats for Your Website Contact Information
• Establishing Credibility as a Trusted Website
• Case Study and Review of an Online Store
• Maximizing Your Reputation as a Trusted Site
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Website Contact Information
0:08:39 Tip of the Day - Business Cards and Bonus Sales
0:10:36 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:11:06 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 016

Referenced links:
JPG of business card ad for helping online stores make bonus sales
Mainstream Memorabilia online store to compare site graphics to the card ad

Today's show provides evidence that decisions about contact information can enhance the success of a small business website, and help establish a reputation with visitors and search engines as a trusted site. It's the little things that help improve a positive first impression and maximize the value of search engine optimization.

The tip of the day includes a testimonial by the owner of Mainstream Memorabilia, and how she confirmed the value of her business card ad for attracting bonus sales.

TAGS: advice contact info credibility podcast small business advice search engine optimization website design

Websites and Market Branding

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 015 entitled Websites and Market Branding presents small business owners practical advice for creating a consistent corporate image in print and online. The purpose of branding is to create a familiar identity that becomes linked indelibly to your small business through repetition. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Intitial foundation for market branding
• Extending market brand to all media
• Market brand and small business websites
• Market branding and corporate image
• Actions that further define corporate image
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Websites and Market Branding
0:08:42 Tip of the Day - Your Company Name or Slogan in Your Logo
0:09:33 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:10:03 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 015

Referenced links:
Protecting Your Corporate Image and Market Identity article I wrote with advice and tips about logo artwork

Today's show goes beyond websites and promotional material in print. Another key to a consistent market brand and corporate identity is how you execute the operation of your business. This podcast explains how your way of treating customers and doing business becomes part of that corporate image.

TAGS: advice news podcast market branding small business advice

Web Design and Accessibility

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 014 entitled Web Design and Accessibility provides small business owners important information about making websites accessible to the widest possible audience, especially those persons with disabilities. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Definition of Website Accessibility
• Importance of Web Design and Accessibility
• Key Elements for Accessible Web Design
• Case Study of Screen Readers for the Blind
• Accessibility Testing of Small Business Websites
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Web Design and Accessibility
0:12:58 Tip of the Day - SEO Value of Accessible Web Design
0:13:52 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:14:22 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 014

Referenced links:
Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 1.0 provide WAI standards for accessible web design
HiSoftware online accessibility testing allows verifying accessible web design
Test accessibility of this podcast here to confirm it Passed Automated Verification

Special Notes:
To assist listeners, the following list is included here to save you any inconvenience taking notes:

15 Key Elements for Accessible Web Design

1. Use Proper DocType Statement in Code
2. Use a Language Identifier Code
3. Use Descriptive Page Title Tags
4. Use Text Links vs Javascript
5. Use Title Tags to Clearly Define Links
6. Use Descriptive Alt Tags for Each Graphic
7. Use Relative Font Sizes in Ems or Percentage, not Fixed Pixels
8. Use H Series Tags for Headings and Subheadings
9. Use Label Tags in Form Elements of Online Forms
10. Use Summary Tags to Describe Data in Tables
11. Use Table Header Tags to Define Table Layout
12. Use a Search Box Function on Every Page (large sites anyway)
13. Use Separate Presentation and Content with CSS Style Sheets
14. Don't Use Links that Launch Browsers in a New Window
15. Avoid Spacer Shims or Invisible Graphics for Layout

Some of the elements may be unfamiliar or seem too technical, so you may want to review the above list with your web developer. Having pages render compatible to devices for disabled persons is not difficult, and may bring you revenue opportunities servicing this niche of potential customers by providing an accessible small business web design.

TAGS: advice accessibility podcast small business advice search engine optimization wai website design

Optimize Your Website Keywords

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 013 entitled Optimize Your Website Keywords is for small business website owners interested in percentage of keywords for search engine optimization. Topics provide advice for SEO research, implementation, a case study, and free software to help automate the process. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Understanding keywords and key phrases
• Researching keywords for your small business website
• Case study comparing web design to website design
• Advice on optimum keyword density for web pages
• Automated software to test and edit keyword density
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Optimize Your Website Keywords
0:10:30 Tip of the Day - Using a Tilde Search for Synomnyms
0:11:46 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:16 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 013

Referenced links:
Keyword Discovery search online tool for ranking popularity of key words and phrases
DupeFree Pro software download page for testing and edit of keyword density

During this podcast the example ranking of top search results for "web design" and "website design" listed below is referenced and included here to save listeners the trouble of taking notes. The list displays ranking from 1 to 20 of the top 20 search phrases, the actual phrase, and the popularity of that phrase as a percentage compared to the other 19.

Rank/Keywords/Percentage
01 web design (46.4%)
02 website design (11.4%)
03 design a web page (8.6%)
04 web site design (7.6%)
05 web page design (5.8%)
06 free web design (5.4%)
07 design site web (3.4%)
08 computing web design (2.6%)
09 web design software (2.1%)
10 web design tools (1.8%)
11 free web page design (1.3%)
12 free website design (0.9%)
13 website design software (0.5%)
14 website layout design (0.4%)
15 ecommerce website design (0.4%)
16 how to design a website (0.3%)
17 design website (0.3%)
18 best website design (0.3%)
19 design your own website (0.3%)
20 design a website (0.3%)

The bottom line to enhancing your site for search engine optimization is keeping relevant key words in your content that relate to your business without repeating key phrases too often. Your content should be designed for readers first, and then natural linking from search engines and other websites should follow.

TAGS: advice podcast keywords small business advice search engine optimization website design

Small Business Advice Podcasts

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 012 entitled Small Business Advice Podcasts takes a look at other podcasts that specialize in helping small business owners, their themes, and other observations of podcasting options. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Finding small business advice podcasts
• Common themes covered by these online shows
• Reviews of 5 quality podcast productions
• Interacting with small business podcasts
• Future of small business podcasting
• Website quick tip of the day
  

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Small Business Advice Podcasts
0:06:42 Tip of the Day - Recording Equipment for Small Business Website Audio
0:08:58 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:09:28 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 012

Referenced links (alphabetically):
BusinessWeek Magazine Podcasts with video and audio podcast interviews
Entrepreneur Magazine Podcasts offers staff hosted or guest contributor interviews
SmallBizPod with Alex Bellinger and the UK's first small business podcast
Small Business Trends Radio from the Small Business advice site of Anita Campbell
Startup BizCast with host Steve Mullen and weekly small business advice, tips, and education

Small business advice podcasts are a great opportunity to help brand your marketing identity while teaching other entrepreneurs valuable lessons. The tip of the day in today's show introduces podcast equipment and software for producing shows, audio testimonials, or product and service introductions.

TAGS: advice podcast small business advice small business podcasts podcast reviews

Lesson on Blog Tags and Labels

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 011 entitled Lesson on Blog Tags and Labels was selected as a result of an inquiry from one of my small business clients. Learn the value of using tags and labels effectively to maximize the seo and promotional value of your blog to visitors and search engines. Here's the outline for this podcast show:

• Poor tags or labels and search engine optimization
• Comparing small business blog tags and labels
• More about effective blog tags for drawing traffic
• Organizing blog labels that assist your readers
• Summary of advice for blog tags and labels
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Lesson on Blog Tags and Labels
0:09:30 Tip of the Day - Comparison of Pinging Services
0:11:40 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:10 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 011

Referenced links:
Technorati provides an authority source for tracking blogs
List of blog and podcast ping services from a recent post on my blog

Small business websites with integrated blogs have an advantage over their competition. Consider the fact that 70% of solo small business owners do not have a website, and only 5% with sites have a blog. By applying the principles of proper blog tags and labels in your posts, you can enhance the potential for online success.

TAGS: advice blog blog tags blog labels podcast search engine optimization small business

Small Business Website Review

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 010 entitled Small Business Website Review presents advice for small business owners to perform an annual review of their website content and then confirm their domain registration information is up to date. Here's the outline for this podcast episode:

• Comparing a website checkup to an annual health exam
• Studying site content for updates due to changes in your market
• Checking information on your website domain registration
• Five case studies of problems with website ownership
• More information and reasons for visiting WhoIs
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Small Business Website Review
0:09:00 Tip of the Day - Advice for Finding a Good Domain Name
0:12:04 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:34 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 010

Referenced links:
GoDaddy WhoIs search service for confirming domain registration data
WhoIs.net domain search services is another source for registration lookup

My advice is taking the time each January to follow the website checkup advice in today's show. Adjusting site content as needed and ensuring your domain registration is current and accurate each year takes very little time. The direct or indirect cost when things go wrong makes doing these tasks worthwhile.

TAGS: advice business annual checkup podcast WhoIs search small business website review

Tracking Website Statistics

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 009 entitled Tracking Website Statistics presents advice for adding statistic tracking to your small business website. Knowing where visitors came from, which pages they visited, and how long they stayed may help owners plan changes to update their website. Stats from search engines and search phrases used to find you are an added benefit, and may help your search engine optimization efforts, too. Here's the outline for this podcast episode:

• Overview of tracking website statistics
• Free tracking service from StatCounter
• How to register and install tracking code
• Daily review of your website statistics
• Adjusting website content based on tracking data
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Tracking Website Statistics
0:13:50 Tip of the Day - Advice Comparing Hits and Page Views
0:15:47 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:16:17 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 009

Referenced links:
Website statistic tracking service from StatCounter.com
Download this PDF tutorial and visual illustrated guide to StatCounter (zip: 665kb)

The detailed PDF report takes you step by step on setting up and installing code on your website to begin tracking statistics about your small business website visitors. If you have any questions about setting up or using free stat tracking services from StatCounter, feel free to contact me.

TAGS: advice blog search engine optimization podcast website statistics small business website design

Add an Integrated Website Blog

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 008 entitled Add an Integrated Website Blog presents the advantages of adding an integrated blog to your small business website. The aging period required for new sites to get attention from the major search engines may be shortened if you have a blog.

Listen to learn about case studies of new small business website blog integration, and the positive results others have experienced from this advice. The blog of a recent custom small business website launch that I designed made Google page one in 1 week. Here's the outline for this podcast episode:

• Website blogs and the value of fresh content
• Case studies of clients who followed my advice
• Why I recommend an integrated website blog
• Why small business blogs help conquer the competition
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Add an Integrated Website Blog
0:11:16 Tip of the Day - Broadcast Resource to Promote Your Blog
0:12:24 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:54 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 008

Referenced links:
A fun search engine optimization article entitled "Google Crawlers and Stray Cats"
Blog your way to fresh content free SEO PDF report about blogging
Blog promotion broadcast service at www.Pingoat.com for one-click promotion

Starting a blog should not be taken lightly. As presented in today's program, the owners of 75% of all new blogs quickly abandon their project within 90 days. This podcast episode explains the benefits of keeping up a blog, and includes some incredible search engine traffic results that should not be missed.

TAGS: advice blog search engine optimization podcast case study small business promotion website design

Website Content and Copyright

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 006 entitled Website Content and Copyright presents advice for small business owners when providing content to a web developer for a new website design. You cannot collect photographs, multimedia, or text content from other websites or printed resources without permission.

Listen to learn about this case study involving photo copyright, website content copyright issues, website material resources, and finally copyright protection basics. Here's today's outline:

• Case Study of Copyright Involving Verbal Permission
• Types of Content Clients Provide for Website Design
• Resources Other than Original Copyright Material
• Summary of Obtaining and Protecting Copyrights
• Website Quick Tip of the Day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Website Content and Copyright
0:10:17 Tip of the Day - Copyright Policy as a Website Designer
0:12:16 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:46 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 006

Referenced links:
Royalty Free Photograph Directory with reviews of top photo resource websites
The Music Bakery Royalty Free Music for purchasing affordable royalty free music
Small Business and Digital Design blog article about website copyrights

I have personally viewed disagreements in online forums, and other places where two parties were embroiled in harsh words over a single sentence of similar content on competing websites. Obviously, the case study of the website with photographs and the cease and desist legal request provide reasons for small business website owners to use care in providing content to their web developer.

TAGS: advice copyright music podcast case study small business website design

Mass Mailing Website Promotion

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 005 entitled Mass Mailing Website Promotion presents advice that saved one client $1000 on a 5000 piece small business post card mailing to promote their business and website. Decisions about the size of printed marketing materials for mass mailing should include evaluating the cost factor of postage.

Additional topics in today's show mention bulk mail rates and outsourcing your mailing campaign to subcontractors. The real point of the advice is helping do-it-yourself small business owners cut costs for website promotion. Here's today's outline:

• Total Price by Size for Mass Mailing 5000 Post Cards
• Artwork Based on my Published Design Rates
• Printing of 5000 Flyers Based on my Recommended Printer
• Tax and Freight for Inbound Printing for 5000
• Postage for Outbound Post Card Mailing for 5000
• Website Quick Tip of the Day
  

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Mass Mailing Website Promotion
0:09:50 Tip of the Day - Why Less is More in Your Ad
0:11:50 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:12:20 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 005

Referenced links:
US Postal Service Website to search for rates or bulk permits
Post Card Dimensions for Bulk Mailings to learn size requirements
My 5 Second Rule for Small Business Owners about first impressions in print or online

Additional Notes by the Numbers (to save listeners from taking notes):

Total Price by Size for Mass Mailing 5000 Post Cards
(This includes artwork, printing, inbound freight, outbound postage.)
$1700 TOTAL for a 4 x 6 post card flyer
$2575 TOTAL for a 5 x 7 post card flyer
$2750 TOTAL for a 5-1/2 x 8-1/2 post card flyer

Artwork Based on my Published Design Rates
$150 for 4 x 6 post card flyer
$150 up for 5 x 7 post card flyer
$250 for 5-1/2 x 8-1/2 half page post card

Printing of 5000 Based on my Recommended Printer
$150 for 4 x 6 full color, uv coated post cards
$300 for 5 x 7 full color, uv coated
$350 for 5-1/2 x 8-1/2 full color, uv coated

Tax and Freight for Inbound Printing for 5000
$50 for 4 x 6 post card flyers
$75 up for 5 x 7
$100 for 5-1/2 x 8-1/2

Postage for Outbound Post Card Mailing for 5000
$1300 for 4 x 6 ($0.26 each up to 6 x 4-1/4 max.)
$2050 for 5 x 7 ($0.41 each)
$2050 for 5-1/2 x 8-1/2 ($0.41 each)

By comparing the cost of postage for your next Mass Mailing Website Promotion, and then deciding if a 4 x 6 flyer meets your needs, your overall savings could easily be $1000 on just one post card mailing. Email me with questions or to learn about standard size and custom flyers that worked well for other clients.

TAGS: advice mail campaign postcards flyers podcast pricing small business website promotion

Dynamic versus Static Websites

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 004 entitled Dynamic versus Static Websites presents small business website basics for deciding if you need a static or dynamic website design when launching a new site, or doing a redesign of an established website.

Besides the added cost in real dollars for a dynamic site, you must be prepared to invest considerable time on updates, so be certain a complicated website is what you really need. The choices are explained in today's show including some technical terms, and then site management and price issues. Here's today's outline:

• The difference between dynamic and static website design
• Understanding client side and server side processes
• Choosing a dynamic or static small business website design
• Taking control or delegating website maintenance
• Comparing the cost of dynamic versus static websites
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Dynamic versus Static Websites
0:10:39 Tip of the Day - Valid Code and Dynamic Website Designs
0:12:30 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:13:00 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 004

Referenced links:
W3C Online HTML Code Validation Tool

Small business owners need to understand the importance of realistic expectations when selecting how to present their small business online. Each decision should consider the points made about cost tradeoffs between dynamic versus static websites, the locale of your target market, and comparing your business model to the competition.

TAGS: advice static websites dynamic websites website maintenance podcast pricing small business website design

Analyzing Competitor Websites

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 003 entitled Analyzing Competitor Websites teaches small business website owners how to compare the design of their website to top competitors. Whether your site is established or you are just starting out, knowing the search engine optimization techniques of your direct competition is worthwhile. Here's today's outline:

• Key factors for top search engine results
  
1. Keywords in the Page Title
2. The META Description
3. Keywords in the H Tags
4. Keywords in Text Links
5. High Quality, Original Content
6. The Size of Your Website
7. The Age of Your WWW Domain
• Making a list of your search keywords and key phrases
• Doing a search in Google and Yahoo
• Details for analyzing competitor websites
• Website quick tip of the day

0:00:00 Podcast Theme Music and Introduction
0:00:45 Main Topic - Analyzing Competitor Websites
0:11:58 Tip of the Day - Revealing the #1 Website SEO Factor
0:13:40 Podcast Outro Theme Music and Credits
0:14:12 End of Small Business Website Mailbag Podcast 003

Referenced links:
Google search
Yahoo search

This strategy goes beyond search engine optimization. If one of your goals is top listings in search results, there's no better way to discover what works than to search for key phrases and then analyze each site design of the top listings. Do not copy content or code verbatim from any website. You may face the risk of legal action, so learn from others but be very careful to keep your design completely original.

TAGS: advice blog design news podcast promotion reviews seo websites

Website Basics Getting Online

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Show Notes
Today's podcast Episode 002 entitled Website Basics Getting Online explains the beginner's guide to the basics required to get their small business website online. From experience in custom website design, it's surprising how many owners do not understand domains, hosting, and best practices for websites, blogs, or podcasts including SEO, Search Engine Optimization. Here's today's outline:

• Introduction to basics needed for a website
• Explanation of w