roadmaps: creating key business assets.

Oh I love a good Roadmaps afternoon. In case you're unfamiliar, Roadmaps is your guide to creative pursuit. Design for Mankind walks you through start to finish, from choosing your career path to making it happen. We're ALMOST halfway there, so if you need to catch up, see the Roadmaps archives right here.
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Today's Roadmap is all about creating your key assets, which is basically a fancy word for saying "Get your ducks in a row!". This is one of my favorite stages of starting a business because it allows for a bit of strategy, a bit of planning and a whole lot of creativity!

I've divided this section into two parts for clarity:
1-- Website Address.
2-- Trademark.

I imagine that for most of you, the first part will be the most helpful, and the latter two may apply to just a few of you. Regardless, we're digging in, so hang in there!
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Choosing your web address is CRUCIAL. I can't emphasize the importance of a good web address enough. Here are a few key things to remember when formulating your web addy:

1. Stick with .com if you can. This is not the time to get creative with a .net, .biz, etc.
2. Keep it short and sweet. ILikeToWriteAboutDesign.com is neither short, nor sweet.
3. Avoid hyphens. They lead to more potential human errors when readers may try to locate your site.
4. Include the topic in the address, if you can. If you write about design, try to include design. If you're selling craft materials, try to include craft. Your search engine ratings will thank you.
5. Craft a catchy name, but avoid misspelling your words to be cutesy. It can only lead ot confusion!
6. If your desired web address is already taken, don't worry. Many entrepreneurs are willing to sell you a web name that isn't in use for a low rate. Simply contact the owner of the domain name.
7. Purchase your domain name immediately if you've found one you love. Regardless of whether or not you're prepared to begin your site, you'll want to ensure you've secured the domain name before someone else does. You can do this through a variety of sites, including GoDaddy.com, Network Solutions or Register.com.


Ahh, trademarks and copyrights. Many people see trademarks/copyrights as a luxury in the business realm, but they are much more essential than you think. I consider them the "car insurance of businesses-- useless until something goes wrong."

Although trademarks do give a business a sense of extra oomph [I LOVE when there's a cute little TM after a business name!], they really come in handy if you discover that another person or company is hurting your business reputation or causing confusion by using your mark to sell similar or cheaper-quality goods.

For more information on trademarks and how to register, visit the US Patent and Trademark Office right here. As always, if you need help, simply email me right here!
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Now that you've figured out licensing, product trademarks and the lot, we can move on to the messy stuff--- FINANCES! Stay tuned in the following weeks for the next Roadmaps post re: finding the funding for your business.