Websites are a reflection of one’s business. Websites are born to give new birth to business entities. And for different entities, there are different types of websites that have come into existence for different business needs. We describe here, the four main kinds of websites that are available and that are extensively used for most business purposes.

The static website is the simplest and the most basic of all website types. In these websites, content is delivered without server side processing. Such websites face lots of limitations in terms of user interactivity, difficulty in making it compatible and in updation that is absolutely necessary for all websites. Larger websites are tough to maintain in the static form since the maintenance and upgradation that is regularly required takes longer than usual in static websites and the process is extensive and demanding too. Sensibly, static websites are best for small scale purposes. Small websites that are comparatively easy to handle and do not need detailed upgradation are best when they have the static built.

Dynamic websites are dependent on server side scripting. They are comparatively more interactive that static websites and usually use a database to deliver the content for individual pages. A dynamic website is appropriate for large ones. A dynamic website will be required to allow users to sort and search records, or to restrict access to parts of the website using a log-in procedure. Maintenance and upgradation is much easier in case of dynamic websites. Generating website pages on the fly, using a database to store and deliver content, is an efficient way of managing a large site. However, Search Engine Optimisation is a bit difficult task to implement particularly if the search engine optimisation needs are not taken into account at the development stage.

Content management Websites are the refined form of dynamic website. The content management system provides a password protected interface through which users can add, edit and remove content from the site. A content management system is particularly useful in the case of large sites which have numerous contributors, some of whom may be working from remote locations.

Flash, originally developed by Macromedia is used to generate complex animations. The programme is sophisticated enough for entire websites to be constructed using Flash technology. Flash websites can be visually stunning and provide excellent interactivity, but it is very difficult to implement search engine optimisation on a Flash site and so it is, generally, to be avoided.

These sites have revolutionized the online business world. An e-commerce website has the power to reach a global audience. It is a dynamic website which has the functionality to process financial transactions. Most of these websites are built to mimic a bricks and mortar store and use the model of stock pages, shopping basket system and checkout. E-commerce websites use a secure online payment system. Various sites also include a content management system, so that product details can be added or updated, and some include advanced features such as automated stock control.

Online forums or message boards are websites where people come together and discuss everything related to their industry, or any other topic like sports, music, or politics. Forums with good numbers of memberships get lots of content in forms of threads, discussions, and replies.

Affiliate marketing is one of the most cost efficient methods to promote a business. Affiliate marketing uses existing internet web sites as an advertising platform for your products, these sites are also called affiliate sites, are essentially functioning as virtual billboards that advertise products and services from merchants like you. Affiliate merchants, can manage their offers, commission structure and have access to comprehensive sales/commission reports.