A website today is as essential as the name of your business, your phone number, or your retail store front. Every business needs one. Seventy-five percent of consumers look online first for local business information, yet research has indicated that about only 50 percent of small businesses in the U.S. actually have websites.

1. To set up a store front (or a virtual office)
   Many small businesses have found that even if they can’t afford rent on Main Street, or in the Mall, they still can exist in cyber space and sell their goods and services. The Internet has changed the way people shop. It’s no longer about getting in the car and driving down to the store, or even looking in the phone book for a service.
2. Cheap way to advertise
   Creating your online presence needn’t be expensive. A very basic Web presence can be had for as little as $1,200. Compared to other forms of advertising, websites offer very good value to money spent.
3. Customer service
   A website is essential to establish your businesses’ credibility and to provide support for customers so that they can find easy answers to their questions about your business – such as where you are located, what products or services you sell, and how to contact you. This self-serve information for customers can help you, as a business owner, save time by leaving you free to focus on business.
4. Remain open 24/7
   Few businesses keep their doors open around-the-clock. But a Web presence can make it seem as if your business does. Potential customers can find out information about what you sell and how you sell it at all hours — on weekends, in the middle of the night, or in different time zones.
5. Expand your reach
   Although your office may benefit from some local foot traffic every now and then, nothing beats the global reach of a website. Having your signpost on the Web allows your business to do business all over the world.
6. Launch promotions easily
   On the Web, it’s much simpler to change your product or service offerings, or your prices, than in a print catalog. You can also launch new promotions with a few keystrokes. Adding fresh content and incentives often will keep your clients coming back for more