Whatever the reason, running a commercial web site will require you to sharpen all of your "abilities": accessibility, reliability and accountability. I'll expand on these areas in a moment. First, however, let's define what I mean when I talk about a "commercial" web site. There are millions of web sites out across the Internet, and hundreds more going on line every day.

Going commercial
So what makes a web site "commercial"? Well, for starters, the site's purpose or intent. Ask yourself the question, "What is the purpose of this web site?" Commercial web sites typically are built to sell a product or service, or to educate potential consumers about a product or service.

It is the goal of a good commercial web site to make money and/or to sell you something. You may not buy products directly from the site, but make no mistake about it the site is marketing-oriented, and is trying to influence you into buying some product or service.

Look and feel
When you visit a commercial web site, you can tell instantly. It has a slick, polished look, and its message or purpose is clear, concise and to the point. Sometimes, they verge on blatant, with phrases such as: "Buy Now!", "Order Today!", and "Click Here". You get the point. Commercial sites often have advertising banners, which may link to other vendors, products, or even to other sections within the same site.

Graphics and design also set a commercial web site apart. If a company does not have it's own internal graphics or art department, they will typically outsource the design of the site's graphics, images, background and buttons. A good commercial web site has a coherent theme, a look and a feel that conveys and reinforces the message.

Successful commercial sites are always changing. The content is fresh and new, enticing you to come back again. Think of the web sites you like to visit. Are they the same month-to-month. Chances are, the answer is no. Good sites always have something newÉ something to make you feel like you're missing out on some vital information if you don't visit them at least once a month. Now, can you name ANY department store that can say the same? Now you're getting the idea on how valuable this web medium really is.