To resell or not to resell, this is the ?

[kelseyco]

Hi,

Don't you just love the internet!? I've just come across this chat forum, having begun an exploration of the pros and cons of reselling. I'm so very thankful that this exists. Here's my question/situation for which I welcome all and any wise advise.

I'm starting up a business offering web design, documentation and e-learning solutions. In the process of creating web sites, I've discovered that most of my clients know nothing about web hosting and how to go about selecting an appropriate vendor. Thus, they are turning to me to make choices for them. Knowing that they are, I've come to discover, that the best way for me to manage them is to become a reseller.
? #1 - Is that an accurate assumption?
? #2 - If my primary purpose is to become a reseller mostly to manage my clients' web sites that I design, not to just sell web hosting services, are there particular reseller programs that are better than others for me to consider? For example, I don't think I want to be responsible for all the technical support issues that come up.
? #3 - Has anyone had any experience with GoDaddy's reseller program?

Thanks for the anticipated input!
Cheers,
M

[tuffy]

1. I would have to say yes.
The way I see it, offering hosting to your design clients would be another way to make income.

2. Resellers are most always expected to handle basic issues.
If you absolutely do not want to handle support, but would like to have a reseller account, you may be able to work out something with the webhhost provider. If you are on the computer much, then handling support shouldn't be that difficult.

3. I have not used Godaddy, and don't recall reading anything about it. I'm sure someone else may have some insight.

Cheers,

[kelseyco]

Thanks for the reply.
I'll continue to dig around at possible reseller options.

How long have you been in the business?
Any tips on what NOT to do when you first get started?

[Sarah]

You might like to read this article on Reselling.

The Reselling Arrangement

Hope it helps.

[tuffy]

Hi Kelseyco,

Your questions is a little broad, but I recommend having a business plan. At the same time, work on narrowing down to a couple providers you think will suit your needs, and then do a little research on them. Ask any questions you may have until you are satisfied with your choice. Having a good service provider with responsive support is half the battle.

You will need a way for clients to pay if you don't already have that in place. A terms of service or TOS is important to have at the start.

This is definitely not a complete list, but those are a couple things for you to consider.

Cheers,

[cahostnet]

I have to say you really need to sit down, develope a plan and decide if you really want to do all of that when starting out. The great thing about reseller especially when you provide design is that most customers needing design also need hosting. But reseller is great because you don't have to worry about servers etc. You just provide basic support and let the hosting company do the rest.

It's a great idea to start out as a reseller but make sure you have a plan. Good luck.

[sorted]

If you want to cash on the hosting potential that your web design business generates without taking responsibility for technical support issues then I suggest you look for an affiliate program rather than a reseller account.

But its definitely worth the time to research.

[tuffy]

As an affiliate, basically you are selling hosting for a company, and making a commission on each sell. The person who buys hosting through you will have the account, and have support provided by the hosting company.

Not sure this is what you had in mind for your clients, but it is an option to consider as sorted mentioned.

Cheers,

[Netxhost]

Reselling is a great way to start out, but you do need some sort of business plans. I suggest you keep looking around and continue to explorer your choices.

[weblord]

resellership if youre just starting out to explore the beauty of hosting
dedicated server are for the pros.

[Zenutech]

If you want mainly to do Design services etc for your living, and not have to bother with web hosting, then you need to STICK with your FOCUS.

Many companies think they can "do it all" when it comes to the internet. The more "do it all" that you do, the less focus or priority you will place on what you exceled at before, which means your services will take a bump.

My suggestion is to work out a good partnership with a good host and to earn a descent income everytime you refer somebody to them. After 3 years in this business as a web host, I have to say I love the web designers who take this approach because when I need web design done for one of my prospective clients, I know EXACTLY where to foward the sale to

Looking foward to hearing from you if you think this is a good opportunity.

[EssEss]

Well, I guess, affiliate program is what kelseyco should look for.

Referring a client to a hosting company with your affiliate id is just you would like to do. No pre-sales or post-sales support, no upfront investment, no maintenance, no headaches, no tensions and good money.

Warm regards,

EssEss