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7.17.05 MadelynBello.com is launched!

To launch a website could be an easy or difficult endeavor - all depending on how much effort you want to put into it. It took me a few months to get to here today and I took the middle road.

If I had wanted to be not only a published author, but a published author who sold books, I had to market my books. Many authors would agree that a website is one way to promote your work. To that end, I started planning over a year ago to create my website. This is what I did.

Step One: Learn HTML.

I didn't have the resources to hire someone to create and maintain a website for me. I knew that I will have to create the website on my own. So my first step was to learn how to create a website. I took a community college class on Introduction to Websites. I learned about the internet, copyright laws and that all important language - HTML (Hypertext Markup Language).

After a semester, I came to a few truths:

• I can do basic HTML programming, but I don't have the time or inclination to do anything complicated.
• I am not going to take the time to learn graphics to create my logo and the background graphics for my website. I will need to save money to hire someone to do that for me.
• I will need to devote some time every month or so to add fresh new content to the website to increase traffic.

Step Two: Write Content.

Plan what you want to have on your website. How will you attract people to your site? How will you ensure their return to your site?

To answer those questions, I did research. I checked out the websites of other authors - and not just romance authors. I looked at thriller and suspense websites. I looked to see what type of content the authors had to get ideas what I want on my website.

I also studied the color schemes and the graphics on those websites. Using the other websites as examples, I determined how I wanted my website to look. The graphics and colors used as well as the content represent me and the type of person I am. Once I had an idea of what the site will look like, it was time to hire a graphic artist.

Step Three: Hire a Graphic Artist.

Thanks to my friend and critique partner Doreen, she introduced me to April of graphicfantastic.com. April created my logo, the basic template for this website as well as my business cards.

Step Four: Find a Host.

Thanks to some computer/website-saavy friends, I received many excellent recommendations for launching the website. Ultimately, I went with Valueweb.com and as a Costco member, I received a good deal on their services.

Step Five: Launch the Website.

Upload the website. And you are done.

But don't stop there. You need to move on to the next phase - advertising the website. And that is what I will be doing.

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