Websites and new technology

The power of the web

Everyone knows that the internet has transformed the way we communicate and most organisations recognise the importance of having a website to be their window on the world.

Churches should not be any different. A website gives you a cheap and flexible way to tell people about what you are doing. Building a website seems daunting but here are some pointers to help you get started.

Hosting and domain names. The first thing you need to do is think about where the website is going to be hosted. Every website needs to be on a service provider or hosting company - a computer linked to the world wide web. This will cost, usually an annual fee and you will need to shop around to find out what gives you the best deal for your need. Once you've done that you need a domain name, an address for the site. This needs to be unique and logical so that people using the internet can find you church website. For more help on finding a web hosting company and domain name go to

Website content The best idea with a new site is to keep it simple. You wnat to have basic information on your site - Who you are, where you meet, how you can be contacted, the different services and activites you are involved in. You may also want to add latest news and details about your church history. Remember that you need to keep the site updated so don't bee too ambitious at first. You can always add to your site as you go along.

A note about writing for the web. The best idea is to keep it simple and short. too much information can be off putting.

Good design makes a good website. You need to think about the design of your site. Make it simple, logical and consistent. Remember the three click rule. the aim is that visitors should be able to find what they want in three clicks. If you make your site attractive with colours, pictures and good design people will want to visit.

Use an expert. You may have someone in the church who is interested in websites. If that's the case you can use their skills. But remember the information on the site reflects the church and the church should own the content and more than one person should be able to access the site.

Don't be afraid of the web but do be sensible. Anything you put on a site can be viewed by anyone. Any writing must be copyright free and legal. Any images must be cleared of copyright. You must make sure you don't breach the data protection act by disclosing personal information without permission.

Still too off putting

Why not use some of the tools that are easily available. You can register with a Church Near You at www.achurchnearyou.com and set up a basic web presence.

Want more hints?

Go to these sites for more help and advice

www.cofe.anglican.org/about/diocesesparishes/suggestions.html
www.communitykit.co.uk
www.anglican.org/domain/index.html

Help and Support

If you need any help or support with your website then contact

Stuart Haynes
Media Manager

0151 705 2150
stuart.haynes@liverpool.anglican.org

Already have a website?

We want to hear from you.

Tell us your web address so that we can link to our site. Let us know who the web editors are and we will set up a web community for parishes to share tips, hints and ideas. Email us on stuart.haynes@liverpool.anglican.org

Want to develop your web presence?

Why not think about setting up a blog site?
Incorporate audio visual techniques into your site? Why not set up a youtube account and start videoing the life of the church. Or add sound recordings? Remember to make sure you don't breahc copyright laws.
How about starting a church social network site on something like Facebook?

For help and advice in doing this sensibly then contact us at the communications office.