Frequently Asked Questions

Web Site Development

Q. Why do I need a web site? What if I already have one?

A. The days when having a web site simply be your “billboard” on the internet are long gone. These days, companies are using the internet more interactively to provide better service to their customers. TBF Digital specializes in design that goes beyond a simple, static page, and consequently keeps your web site relevant and useful to your customers.

Q. What information should I include on my web site?

A. There are a number of different factors as to what you should put on your web site, depending on the type of business you're in. Most importantly, you should put any information about you, your products, and your services that a customer would want to know before conducting business with you. People visiting your site are hungry for information, and if they don't find what they're looking for, they may look elsewhere. Another good rule of thumb is to check out some of your competitors' sites. See what kind of information they are presenting, and think about how you could improve upon their sites. Setting yourself apart from your competitors is key to having a successful web site.

Q. What is a domain name? How should I pick one for my site?

A. A domain name is the “dot com” name you register with an organization on the internet that manages registrations worldwide. This allows you to have a web site and email services based on that name, such as “mycompany.com”. Domain names will typically be registered for between two and ten years at a time. When picking a domain name, pick something that defines your site, is as short as possible, and easy to say and spell. Also make sure you choose the appropriate top level domain (TLD)— .com or .biz for businesses, .net for networks, .org for non-profits, or any other specialty TLD (.edu, .gov).

Q. Do you offer email services?

A. Yes, our hosting packages typically include email boxes, depending on your needs.

Q. Can I use my own hosting provider for a site you design for me?

A. Sure, just be sure to check with us to be certain that the server you're using meets the requirements for the site we are developing for you.

Q. Do you provide internet access (dial-up, DSL, etc.)?

A. No. We develop web sites and provide hosting services, but do not provide the internet access service.

Q. Can you use my company's existing printed materials to design a template for a web site?

A. Certainly. If you already have a good deal of printed materials, we can work within those parameters to ensure your web site has the same corporate look and feel. If you have the designs for your printed materials in electronic form, we can work with nearly any type of file (PC or Mac).

Q. Can you get my web site to be in the top 10 results in a Google or Yahoo search?

A. No one can guarantee search engine ranking. Companies that do are often using illegal tactics, otherwise known as "spamming" the search engines. While this may work for a while, it will eventually get your web site banned from the search engines altogether. However, TBF Digital does offer a Search Engine Optimization (SEO) package, including a comprehensive program to help you attract not just more web site traffic, but the right traffic.

CD-ROM Development

Q. Why use CD-ROM’s? Why not put everything on my web site?

A. CD’s are a good choice when the amount of information involved is too large for a web site. The most common example of this is video. While it’s technically possible to have video on your web site, your audience may not be willing to sacrifice quality or speed.

Another reason is that many marketing professionals consider it valuable to give their audience a tangible, “touch-and-feel” product.

Q. Can you produce the CDs as well?

A. Yes. We can provide CDs in any quantity in a wide variety of packaging options, from paper sleeves to plastic jewel cases to DVD-style cases.

Q. We have a paper catalog that we produce periodically. Can that be put on CD?

A. Absolutely. Depending on your needs and the content of the catalog, several options may be available to make it completely searchable and organized for quick access.

Digital Media Design

Q. What is digital media design?

A. Because of the large number of forms digital communication can take, many projects and applications cannot be placed into a specific category. We provide services ranging from simple file format conversions up to commercial software development including database design and maintenance services. Other potential applications include online document design, email marketing design, and other media.