a client website

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How does Dining Presence offer such low prices for custom websites?
2. Who "owns" the domain name?
3. Can I use a domain name I already have?
4. Can I update my website more often than semiannually?
5. Will search engines such as Google, Yahoo and others find my website?
6. I have more questions.

How does Dining Presence offer such low prices for custom websites?

In a nutshell, the secret is our approach:

• We specialize in food service. We believe that every client is unique and needs a custom website, but we are not starting from scratch each time. Our experience gives us a solid framework and direction resulting in high quality, reliable websites without the huge expense of one-off design efforts.
• We leverage technology. Each Dining Presence website is implemented as an independent CMS (Content Management System) image backed by a SQL database. We reliably deploy these instances with proprietary tools. We have also developed a number of specialized tools such as our unique page caching technology that enhances performance. Site styles allow us to develop and debug the website "look" in advance.
• We automate. Every Dining Presence website is checked daily by software robots that detect any changes (using an MD5 hash) or performance problems. This will uncover web hosting issues or hacking attempts and notifies us immediately so that we can take corrective action. Similarly we check external links, manage backups and perform other on-going maintenance tasks.
• We are a small business like you and proud of it! Our overhead costs are low and carefully managed.

Who "owns" the domain name?

Dining Presence does not hold your domain name hostage. Should you decide for any reason to discontinue our service, we will unconditionally transfer your domain name to you and do so at no charge.

However, to provide the best possible service we normally register your domain name and maintain control of it. We pay all on-going fees related to it and handle all administrative requirements.

While we advise against it, we can also use a domain name that you keep direct control of. In that case you will need to set the DNS name server records to our specification. Of course it would be your responsibility to pay domain registration fees, respond to ICANN verification requests, secure it and resolve any domain name related problems. Please note that our service fee includes domain name services with their associated costs and is not discounted if you choose to provide one that you manage.

Can I use a domain name I already have?

Yes, in most cases. We can help you transfer your existing domain name to Dining Presence for use with your new website. If you are upgrading from an existing website, we can delay this transfer until your new website is ready. When the transfer is initiated, it can take anywhere from a few hours to a week depending on your domain registrar.

Most reputable domain registrars permit transfers without conditions and without charge. If your registrar charges a transfer fee, they will bill you and payment will be your responsibility. We will assist you in exploring options if your registrar prohibits transfers.

Can I update my website more often than semiannually?

Yes. While our standard service plan including a semiannual update works well for most clients, we also offer service plans that include monthly or weekly updates. More information is available here.

Will search engines such as Google, Yahoo and others find my website?

Yes. As part of our service we add hidden "meta" information to your web pages, create a hidden sitemap XML file and submit your website to the major search engines. We follow search engine guidelines to insure your website is not banned from their index. The decision to include any website in their index is controlled by the search engine companies and Dining Presence can not guarantee any specific placement now or in the future. That said, our experience is that the steps we take are effective.

Usually searches for your restaurant will find you. For example, searches such as "Mario's Italian in Cityname" are generally successful. This is perfect for customers who already know about you and are trying to find your website. Potential customers who search on "Italian Restaurant in Cityname" or similar may find your entry far down on results lists. The good news is search engine companies offer services to position you more prominently but the bad news is they charge for that service and the cost for each may be greater than Dining Presence charges for the website itself.

If you would like to buy premium placement, you can do so by directly contacting the search engine companies. Dining Presence can assist you with a list of their web addresses.

I have more questions.

Great, we love to chat with restaurateurs! Please contact us and we will gladly answer all your questions.