The Tribune

The Internet has forever changed the way we do business. Businesses are networking better than they ever could before due to social networking sites.

Just 20 short years ago, we were looking through books to find the addresses of sites offering files that could be downloaded, using the latest in file-sharing technology.

Back then, there were no GUI (Graphical User Interface) websites, no pop-ups or ads to get in the way, no search engines, and Java was an exotic island in Indonesia.

With tons of tools and services available, creating a website is no longer rocket science. The astronomical number of personal websites one now finds on the Internet are mind-blowing. Personal websites and blogs are the fastest-growing types of web site.

The irony, though, is that everyone likes variety, meaning the ability to pick and choose from a diverse assortment of options.

It is something that every person desires. Still, when it comes to websites, most people think only one or two options exist. This could not be further from the truth. There are actually several types of websites. Consider that in the world of fiction there are four main categories (short story, novel, drama and poetry).

Every style and genre of fiction falls under one of those four categories. Likewise, the same is true for these types of website models.

I will not go into great detail about the many sub-categories, as my goal is to give you a good outline of the basic website models and what they can do for you and your business.

Informational Websites

Informational-based websites were the first versions to hit the Internet, and they are as they sound: Sites that enable readers to find information on a particular business or topic.

Brochure/Catalogue Style Websites

This kind of website goes deeper than an informational site, and provides general information about a store as well as the stock they carry and the prices.

E-Commerce Websites

E-commerce websites take brochure websites a step further by allowing you to shop directly from your computer.

The main difference between a brochure site and an e-commerce site is that the latter features a check-out system to enable you to order directly from the online store.

Blogs

Blog websites (traditionally known as web blogs) did not hit the mainstream until the early to mid-2000s. However, since then blogging has become very popular for both business and personal use.

Personal Websites

Personal websites are similar to that of a personal blog, where an individual has their own personal domain.

These are created by friends and families to share their information and pictures online with each other, allowing people to keep in contact.

Social Media and Networking Websites

More popular than ever, online forums and social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and MySpace have been all the rage for the past couple of years. They are used on a daily basis to spread the word and keep in touch with family and friends.

Photo Sharing Websites

Great for those in the photographic industry, these sites allow for individuals to upload and share photographs online.

Mobile Device Websites

As technology develops, so does the variety, and the creation of websites for viewing on mobile devices and mobile phones.

These are the eight leading styles of websites. And, ultimately, knowing the types of website available will define the one most suitable for your personal and business needs.

Significantly, just like the four Pillars of Fiction, each of these models has its own benefits and drawbacks. Nonetheless, you will have to figure out if your product or business is best suited as a brochure or an e-commerce site.

Once you have figured out the right formula, no doubt your business marketability will soar. Until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

• NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

ABOUT COLUMNIST: Deidre Bastian is a professionally-trained graphic designer/marketing coordinator with qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova Southeastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.