Cheap isn't good

The monthly amount of emails we get at some time is staggering. More than half of the quote requests are of people that have a running website with problems. It may vary from a html site, to a complete CMS database operating website. They want a quick fix, for a low price not realizing this attitude is exactly what got them into trouble in the first place. Running a sirious website costs money, unless you have a in-house coder you need to spend money on maintenance and proper development of modules. Downbelow is a short list of issues you should look after:

The server issue
Running a website required you to have a server, a good one. One that is running the latest stable versions of e.g. PHP and MySQL. Running older versions is asking for trouble. Keep it up to date. Sane and simple advice.

The script issue
If you run scripts make sure your scripts are up to date. Why? Well, if you get hacked you have a problem, you will loose your customer base and your reputation.

The module issue
Most scripts out there have an API that allows the development of modules. When hiring a coder make sure you get one that understands what API means and no matter what happens don't let them tincker with the core script. If they do, you should realize that you most likely cannot use the standard upgrades out there.

Following these 3 steps make sure you get a smooth ride. But something more important is that when you expand in the future it will be easier. Make sure you hire the right people that know what they are doing. Oh and always make backups. Did I mention you should make backups??