Choosing a domain name

One of the first steps in having your own website is choosing a domain name. Although this isn't difficult, there are still several things that should be considered.

--> What type of domain name?

There are several types of different domain names. Although some newer domain extensions include .biz, .id, .asn etc, the most widely used and recognised domain names can still be categorised into three types:

.com - relates to commercial entities and businesses
.net - networks and communities (often used by isp's)
.org - mainly used by charities and organisations

Technically speaking you are allowed to use any of the above types, and in some cases depending on availability people will do so. Normally however, you should try and stick to what defines your requirements.

--> What is your target market?

Do you offer products or services to a local, national, or international market? Is it reasonably forseeable that your business will grow, and that you may soon be in the postition to offer services or products to overseas customers?

The rule of thumb is that if your business is based in Australia and you don't offer or plan to sell anything to overseas customers, then you are best of getting a '.com.au' domain name. The '.com.au' domain name is nationally and internationally recognised as the domain name for Australian websites. It makes it easier for potential customers to know straight away that you are an Australian business offering services primarily to Australian customers.

For those businesses who primarily offers products or services to an overseas customer base, then they should register a '.com', or register a specific domain name that defines their largest market segment best, ie '.co.uk' if your business has a branch in the UK. If you offer services nationally and internationally there is no reason why you can't have a domain name for both, ie yourcompany.com.au and yourcompany.com.

--> Domain name availability (make a list)

The next step involves choosing an available domain name. The best way to do this is to brainstorm a list of potential domain names that you think best describe your business. The reason you need to make a list is that these days most generic and popular domain names have already been taken, and therefore you will most likely need alternatives.

When trying to think of a useful domain name it is best to stick to the following guidelines:

- easy to remember
- easy to spell
- describes or at least hints what you offer or what your business is about
- keep it reasonably short

--> Purchasing and registering a domain name

Once you have your list of domain names you will then need to register it. This process simply involves selecting an available domain name and submitting your business details. We are able to offer assistance in the process of selecting your domain name if you require, and we also sell .com.au domain names ( $66/2yrs ). Please contact us if you need any help.


Note:
This information is provided in good faith with no warranty. Pie Software & Design is exlcluded from liability from any claims resulting from actions taken as a result of reading this material.