6 tips for online startups

Online startups are not only becoming the norm. Each day there are more companies tackling consumer needs, such as online shopping, buying platforms, and even security. Here are some basics you should have in place when it comes to getting your online business in order.

Register a domain name, trademarks and get social media handles

Firstly, make sure that the name you want to use is not already being used by someone else. You do this by checking that your preferred name is available as a trademark, domain name and on social media. Keep in mind that registering a trademark does not mean you will get the domain name and vice versa. It is important to get the social media handles as soon as you know what your company or website name will be. Social media is a powerful marketing tool and you don’t want someone else to have a Facebook or Twitter account with your company’s name.

Also, don’t forget to register the “.sucks” domain for your company. Yes, those are also available now and you would want to make sure no one else register it!

Get Terms and Conditions drafted

You may need: Website Terms and Conditions (this must comply with various legislation); Acceptable Use Policy (especially if you provide interactive platforms where people can upload content or comments or chat); Privacy Policy; Code of Conduct (certain regulated industries require a Code of Conduct); PAIA manual.

Get a reputable company to host your website

Review your hosting contract, particularly the SLA carefully. You want to make sure that downtime is minimised, especially if you have an e-commerce site. There is nothing worse than a website that is slow or crashes just as you want to pay!

Get a reliable payment platform

Make sure the payment platform you use is reliable and secure. You will be liable if it isn’t.

Website design

While planning and designing your website, take into account the requirements set out in the Electronic Communications and Transactions Act.

Image via India7 Network on Flickr