Tips on Setting Up a .Org Web Site

The “.org” suffix on Web site URL addresses stands for “organization.” While the .org (read as “dot-org”) was originally established in 1985 to designate nonprofit organizations, today, nearly any person or company can purchase and register domain names ending with .org. Some organizations that you will commonly find have .org Internet addresses include:
  • banks
  • informational sites
  • libraries
  • medical sites
  • not-for-profit companies
  • political organizations
  • retailers.
 
As a result, whether you are a pet groomer, a charity founder or a wine retailer, you can buy and register domain names ending with .org to start your online business.
 
However, keep in mind that, as with any business, you will need to do some initial ground work and investing, as well as regular maintenance, in order to ensure that your Web site functions properly and has the ability to flourish. In this section, we will explain what you have to do to get your .org Web site up and running. Our articles will give you insider tips to help you establish an effective Web site for your online business.

Finding a Good Domain Name

Like a building in which you house your company, domain names are pieces of virtual real estate under which you will build a unique online presence to extend your company’s influence and business. Just as you would look for a “prime” physical location for your organization, so too do you need to put effort into finding the “prime” online location for your Web site, namely by choosing the right domain name.
 
When it comes to choosing domain names, you need to choose a name that is not only available (i.e. not currently used as a domain name for another live Web site), but you also should pick a name that is recognizable and easy to remember. This latter tip will ensure that users will be able to easily return to your site whenever they need your services, products or information.
 
Similarly, another factor to consider as you are choosing the right domain name for your .org Web site is how close the name you choose resembles the function of your organization. For example, a company that sells wine glasses will likely rank higher in search engines with a domain name like wineglasses.org, rather than more obscure, less clear alternatives. While this may seem like a picky detail, it will help new clients or users looking for you in search engines find your business instead of opting for one of your competitors.
 
If you are starting your search for a good domain name, be sure that you know all the facts and understand insiders’ knowledge of finding a good domain name.

Registering a Domain Name

Once you have found an available, effective domain name, you will need to register it with an ICANN-accredited Web host to ensure that you have sole ownership over that URL for the next year. ICANN stands for Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers.
 
Depending on the domain name and Web host you choose to register with, you will likely pay between $10 and $40 to buy your domain name for a year. Each year, you will have to re-register your domain name (usually for the same price you paid to initially register it) to ensure that you retain ownership of that domain name and your associated Web site.
 
As you prepare to take your organization online, be sure that you understand everything you have to do when registering a domain name.
 
Resources
 
The Site Wizard (November 12, 2007). Tips on Choosing a Good Domain Name. Retrieved December 10, 2007, from the Site Wizard Web site: http://www.thesitewizard.com/archive/domainname.shtml.