Sometimes websites just can't get done fast enough. Just the mere thought of having to put up another page of information really takes quite a bit more motivation than it should. Never fear! I'll show you some simple and easy ways of making that next page or site, practically create itself, and at lightning speed!

First of all, use website shell templates as often as you can. These allow simple and very quick website maintenance. They will not be unique and individual most times, but they'll get you up faster. They can be programmed in PHP and allow for very snappy website generation. Each file in the template represents a page. Just insert your page content in the areas provided and you've got an instant completed page. One change to the menu is instantly shared by ALL pages, instead of having to update the menu on each particular HTML file. This saves a LOT of time. More info plus a free template at http://www.martincoleman.com/quickpagegen/

Sometimes, you don't even need a whole package. In certain situations, less is more and should be used in place of larger whistles-and-bells website packages. Sometimes, just 1 page is needed. You'd be surprised just how effective they could be. Maintenance? Less than 10 minutes a week, and that's if you're a slow typer! They're maintained easier, can have all the latest search engine optimisation tricks, minimal images needed and would mean your website could load super fast! Business card websites are great for if you need to have an internet presence, but don't need a full mind blowing multimedia show of a website.

Another thing to remember is, use code generators where helpful. For example, I made a small program that allows me to create a full featured contact form in about 20 seconds, seriously. It takes a few bits of information, then generates the page code ready for copying and pasting into your existing design and your shell template (as above). They save you having to worry about all the repetitive tedious stuff and let you get on with doing what you do best, making a great website that expresses your business, hobby, etc. You can download it from the URL above.

Just follow these very simple yet exceedingly effective hints and you'll find that your next website, either for yourself or for your customer, will be done in a fraction of the time, which means getting more done in less time and more time left over for other aspects of your business or day to day duties.

Martin Coleman

Martin has had experience in the computing industry for nearly 15 years. Having extensive knowledge in computer programming and having operated a retail computer shop, his knowledge and skills span nearly every topic available in the information technology industry. He is a qualified teacher and loves to enhance, improve and tweak hardware and software for maximum efficiency.