Among the many questions that the owner of a proud new website will inevitably ask is: “What should I call my site?” The answer might not be as obvious as you might first think.

First, a little background information to make sure we are all on the same page (or at least reading from the same book).

When someone talks about a “name” for their site, what they are referring to is their “domain name.” A domain name is, of course, the portion of a website address between the “www” and “.com” (or “.org”, “.net”, etc.). For example, www.hurtdidit.com. There are many different domain name registrars, but all domains are drawn from a single database, managed currently by a corporation called Network Solutions. This ensures that no domain name can be registered by more than one person.

With that bit of dry background information out of the way, these are the questions you should consider when choosing your site’s domain name:

Is it available? There are a LOT of websites in operation, with thousands more going online every minute. You will want to make sure your ideal name is available, and get it registered as soon as possible.

Is it memorable? In other words, when you tell someone what your site’s name is, will they be able to remember it?

Is it easy to spell and pronounce? Even if you plan to market your site solely in print format, chances are visitors will mistype your name if it’s not clear. This is even more important when a prospect calls you on the phone and asks for your website address—if it’s difficult to spell, that’s just asking for trouble.

Is it optimized for search engines? Unless you are operating an established, recognized entity, most likely customers won’t be searching for your organization’s name. They will, however, be looking for the services or products you provide in a generic sense. Therefore, it’s wise to select a name that makes use of keywords—the more targeted, the better. Just make sure it’s a phrase that people are actually searching for!

And lastly, is it trademarked? You don’t want to be registering something like wallmart.com – particularly if you are planning on selling a product online. If you are really paranoid of lawsuits, there are some trademark-search companies out there. Personally, if in doubt I just will run several Google searches of the name and synonyms of the name.

However, if you are finding that your site’s domain name is not to your liking after you’ve already set up your site, worry not. We can help you register another domain name and point it to your existing website, so visitors can find you with both your old and new names.

Wouldn't it be nice if you could rename your kids with such ease? Then again, that might only spur an identity crisis!