Where to start?

So you're joining us on the challenge, the big question is where do you start and what exactly does this all entail? As I said in my last post I am no web developer so this is a learning curve. Before I continue let me say upfront if you're looking for a get rich quick scheme look somewhere else. The reason being that this endeavour is probably not going to make you a Mark Zuckerberg or Larry Page. What it will do is assist you with the fundamentals of running a small business and monetising your operation and earning some extra income.

So back to the crux of this post where to start? Before you start dabbling in the web development, graphics and plugins you need to get down and dirty and do the bulk of work for this project. Yes the bulk and most important part of this assignment! What may that be? That's is select your niche!!

Selecting your website niche and ultimate content is the decision that will stand you in good or bad stead for the remainder of your project. So taking the time to actively research and analyse your niche and the potential success is imperative. 

As I mentioned earlier as nice as the idea sounds of earning an income from a passive source sounds, you’re not the first person to come up with the idea and you won't be the last. So don't get caught up in something that you’re not willing to commit some time too.

So that brings me to how I will be selecting my niche, firstly you should take a look at what you're passionate about. There is nothing better than working on something that you really take an interest in, something that can keep you focused when you could be doing something else. So take a look at your life and see what you’re passionate about. Write them down and review them. Then comes the interesting part time to spin these passions.

Are you a sporting fanatic, or an undercover physicist, well time to look at your passion and ask what can you take out of this passion? The first thing you know is that whatever you're interested in, chances are someone else is too. So start with this and begin the process of searching for your niche. 

Once you have an idea you can start the next step which is analysing the market demand and traffic namely the income potential. Then you can start with all the technical stuff.

So the list of where we're going:

1) Find a niche

2) Research the viability of the niche

3) Decide on a host and a content management system

4) Design and create your site

5) Begin your SEO

6) Monetise your site

7) Add content and grow your base

In my next post I'll detail how I found a niche that I think could work for me.