Keeping It Simple With Spelling

It can be difficult to locate the exact right domain name. In today's market most of the good names or first choices have been snatched up by existing companies. The ones that aren't in use may have been grabbed on speculation that the URL would be popular in the future. These names are auctioned off to the highest bidder in most cases, which can get very pricy. It is important resist the urge to engage in unnatural spellings. Explaining these addresses can be difficult, while simultaneously projecting a much less professional appearance. In the case of personal websites, this is a more valid choice but will likely find a drop in traffic for sites that are difficult to locate.

Making It Easy To Remember

In line with the previous entry making domain names easy to remember, write and read will make it easier for viewers to find a site on the great big web. Potential visitors will remember a name until it has a purpose directly related to them. Filing this address in memory for later use is a lot simpler with straightforward spelling and formatting of words. Putting JonsUzedCarz.net into memory or trying to spell it out on a post-it note is a lot more unnatural than JohnsUsedCars.net. To find the best option it is good practice to experiment with different combinations using tools like the domain checker at 1&1.com.

Extensions Should Be Appropriate

It can be tempting to snatch up a domain with an unusual extension. .net, .biz and .org extensions have been popular secondary choices when a .com domain has been taken. There are times when this approach is perfectly valid but studies have shown that alternate extensions may have a detrimental effect if not related to the website. If a small business is serving the local community, the .biz extension makes perfect sense and would not seem out of place. If a non-profit, the .org is an extension tailored made for this cause. Extensions were designed with specific purposes in mind. A little research on the registrar's website will help with making an informed decision.

Keeping The Name Out Front

Brand recognition is important for the individual, business or cause. In a domain name including the company or organization's name simplifies the process while keeping the URL easy to remember. If a viewer wanted to view Nike's upcoming shoe line, they would go to Nike.com, the same with the World Wildlife Fund - WWF.org or to see what a favorite author is up to - StephenKing.com. Having the name of the website included in its URL vastly increases the chances of getting more casual visitors who may have only heard a name and are seeking more information.

Keeping Names Relevant

Relevance in a domain name can be the difference between a successful URL and a life of obscurity for the website. A good trick for finding the right domain is to include a defining characteristic of the website in the title. If an author can't get JohnSmith.com checking for JohnSmithWrites.com may help. A bookstore that uses DetroitBooks.com will have a better shot at being found and increase its web search rankings through strategic keyword usage.