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Differences between eCommerce and Marketplace

E-commerce has experienced exponential growth in recent years, allowing companies to expand their reach and reach a global audience.

So you may have heard the terms eCommerce and marketplace. 

Although both concepts refer to ways of selling products online, there are some significant differences between them. 

In this article, we tell you all about eCommerce and marketplace so you can decide which is the best option for your business.

What is eCommerce?

An eCommerce is an e-commerce website where a brand's products are sold

Most of the time they focus on specific niches. For example, clothing stores, costume stores, pet supply stores, online bookstores, grocery stores. 

There are several popular ecommerce platforms such as Shopify, WooCommerce, SquareSpace, BigCommerce and Magento. 

In addition, these platforms allow for customization, inventory management, secure payment gateways and integration with various shipping providers. 

Advantages of eCommerce

  • Flexibility and control over design, functionality and user shopping experience. 
  • Direct relationship with the customer. 
  • More profit margin, since by selling through your own website, you avoid paying commissions to third parties.
  • It allows you to build a strong brand and foster long-term customer loyalty.
  • You will have data-driven information on customer behavior, which will serve to optimize your marketing strategies and improve conversions.

Disadvantages of eCommerce

  • Requires a significant initial investment.
  • Increased logistical responsibility. Companies must manage inventory and ship products themselves.
  • Intense competition, as there are many eCommerce competing for customers' attention.

What is marketplace?

A marketplace is a digital platform that brings together online stores that sell products or services from different vendors and all kinds of categories. In other words, something similar to a shopping mall, but online. 

Some popular examples of marketplaces are Amazon, eBay, Etsy, AliExpress, Walmart, MercadoLibre. 

Sellers can list their products on the marketplace and leverage its reach and visibility to reach a wider audience.

Advantages of marketplaces

  • Easy start-up.
  • Saving administrative processes, since it is the marketplace who does the transactions and income for you. 
  • Dropshipping option (the marketplace gives you the possibility to manage stock, shipments and returns on your behalf).

Disadvantage of marketplaces

  • Less customization.
  • Transaction fees and additional costs. 
  • You cannot create a customer database for future marketing purposes.

Differences between eCommerce and marketplace

While eCommerce and marketplaces share the goal of facilitating Internet transactions, there are several key differences:

eCommerce vs. marketplace: which one to choose?

There is no single answer, because it depends on several factors. Here are some that you should take into account to know which is the best option for your business: 

  • Types of products and market niche: Some products work well in a marketplace, while others will sell better in a specific online store. 
  • Growth strategy: If your goal is to reach a wider audience quickly, a marketplace can provide you with the necessary reach. On the other hand, if you are looking to build your own brand and have more control, eCommerce will be a good option.
  • Available resources: Evaluate your financial resources, technical skills and ability to manage logistics before making a decision.
  • eCommerce experience: f you have previous experience in eCommerce and are confident in your skills to manage an online store, it may be a more viable option. And if you are just starting to sell online, opt for the marketplace.

Ultimately, the choice between eCommerce and marketplace will depend on your budget, needs and specific objectives. 

Remember that both can be effective online sales strategies, and the most important thing is to offer quality products and services, provide a good customer experience and continuously adapt to market demands.

So carefully evaluate your options, consider your resources and make an informed decision that aligns with your business goals.
And you, do you already have an eCommerce or marketplace or have you thought about it? If you are thinking about creating an eCommerce or a marketplace, we can help you with it, contact us.

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How to avoid falling into a phishing trap

In the digital age, where much of our activities are conducted online, Internet security has become an increasingly important concern. 

Internet fraud can have devastating consequences, from identity theft to financial loss. 

In this article, we are giving you some tips on how to avoid falling into the trap of online fraud and protect your online security. Read on to learn how to keep your personal and financial data safe.

What is phishing?

Phishing is a form of cybercrime in which attackers impersonate legitimate entities to obtain confidential information.

This is accomplished through fraudulent emails, text messages or phone calls. 

In fact, fraudsters use social engineering tactics to trick people into revealing personal data, passwords or financial information. 

Attackers use established brands that build trust in the recipients and this increases the likelihood of a successful attack. 

The sectors most prone to suffer these attacks are:

  • Online stores
  • Social media
  • Banks and other financial institutions.
  • Payment systems (card processors).
  • Software, technology and telecommunications companies.
  • Shipping companies.

Types of phishing attacks

Phishing has evolved far beyond simple data and credential theft. Some of the most common are: 

  • Email phishing:: It has been widespread since the early days of e-mail.

The attacker sends an email pretending to be someone trustworthy and familiar, and asks you to click on a link to perform an important action, or perhaps download an attachment. 

  • Smishing: Using SMS messages, attackers trick users into accessing malicious websites from their smartphones.
  • Vishing: Is telephone phishing. The approach is the same: to appear authentic in order to obtain confidential information from the victim. 

We recommend that you exercise caution whenever you receive an unexpected call requesting confidential information.

  • Fisherman impersonation: These attacks use fake social network accounts belonging to known organizations. 

In this case, attackers use an account identifier that mimics a legitimate organization (e.g. "@zaracustomercare") and the same profile picture as the company's real account.

  • Malware: The following is an example: users are persuaded to click or open an attachment that may download malware to their devices.
  • "Evil twin" Wifi: By impersonating a wifi network, attackers trick users into connecting to a malicious network in order to execute proxy attacks.

Tips for detecting a phishing attempt

It is critical to recognize the signs of a phishing attempt to protect yourself from potential scams. 

Here are some common indicators to watch out for so you don't fall into the phishing trap:


1- Suspicious links:

If you receive an email or message asking you to click on a link, be sure to verify its authenticity before doing so. 

You can spot something odd if it includes strange or suspicious URLs, spelling or grammatical errors in the message text, and an unprofessional writing style.

2- Requests for personal information:

Beware of messages asking you to provide sensitive personal information such as passwords, social security numbers or credit card details. 

Mostly because legitimate entities will never ask you for this type of information through unsolicited emails.

3- Urgency or threats:

Scammers often try to generate a sense of urgency or fear to manipulate you into making hasty decisions. 

So, if you receive a message warning you of dire consequences if you don't act immediately, stay calm and check the authenticity of that message.

4- Suspicious attachments:

Avoid opening attachments in emails or messages that seem suspicious; they may contain malware or viruses that compromise the security of your electronic device.

How to protect yourself from phishing

If you want to protect yourself from Internet fraud, take note of these preventive actions:

  • Update your computer's security software. 
  • Make a backup copy of all your data. 
  • Use and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all your accounts.
  • Block untrustworthy websites.
  • Install an anti-phishing extension in your Internet browser.
  • Keep your passwords secure and up to date. Do not use the same password in two different accounts. 
  • Make sure your cell phone has the latest updates installed. 
  • Don't post personal information on the Internet, as hackers can use it.

What should you do if you think you have fallen into a phishing trap?

If you suspect you have fallen into a phishing trap and shared sensitive information, act immediately. 

Change your passwords on all your affected accounts, contact the relevant entities to inform them about the situation and keep an eye out for any suspicious activity on your accounts. 

Also, consider reporting the incident to the relevant authorities and keep a constant monitoring of your accounts to avoid possible damage.

Remember, your online security is your responsibility. Be wary of suspicious messages, protect your passwords and keep your personal and financial data safe. 

Tell us, did you know how to protect yourself from phishing?

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Web1 to Web3: how the Internet reinvented itself and revolutionized our lives

The emergence of the Internet has been one of the most significant events in the history of mankind, which came to revolutionize and transform the way we communicate, learn, work and interact with the world around us. 

From its birth in the 1960s as a research project to its current status as a global network, the Internet has evolved in multiple dimensions, and its impact on society is undeniable.

In this article we will explore the beginnings and evolution of the Internet. 

Origins of the Internet

The Internet is a global network of interconnected devices that can be accessed from anywhere and has changed the way we live and work. 

But where did it all start?

The origins of the Internet date back to the 1960s, when the U.S. Department of Defense initiated a research project called ARPANET. 

Their goal was to create a secure, failure-safe communications network capable of surviving a nuclear attack. 

As ARPANET expanded, it became an open network that allowed people around the world to connect and communicate.

Web1: the beginnings of the Internet

The Web1, also known as the static Web, was the first stage in the evolution of the World Wide Web.  

It was a basic text-only version of the Internet, with static pages that did not change much, where basic information was shared and users could only consume content, not create it.

These early web pages were created using HTML and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) to display text, images and hyperlinks, but lacked features such as embedded videos or design elements that are common today. 

This meant that creators had to manually code their sites and update them every time they wanted to add new material. 

Web2: the social web

As the Internet evolved, users began to use it to share information and connect with others around the world. This led to the creation of Web2. 

Websites ceased to be merely a means of accessing static information and became an interactive space where users actively engage with web content, participate in discussions and express opinions through online platforms such as social networks, forums, blogs, wikis, podcasts or video sharing sites. 

As a result, Web2 became more social and collaborative, and companies began to use it as a tool for marketing and communication with their customers.

One of the key features of Web 2 is not only its ability to facilitate social connectivity, but also its personalization aspect. 

This allowed websites to tailor content based on individual preferences gathered from user activities or data analysis.

In Web2, users have no control over the data and information that is collected, and it is the large technological companies that store and use it. 

And it all boils down to one transaction: you give me your data and I let you use my application. 

Web3: the present and future

Web3 is the third and most advanced version of the World Wide Web. 

It uses technologies such as semantic web, machine learning (ML), Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain to provide a smarter, more secure and decentralized network.

It is considered the next generation Internet, where everything that could be done in Web2 can still be done, but in a decentralized way. 

Unlike previous versions of the Internet, Web3 is based on decentralized protocols that allow more control over data and protect user privacy.

It also promotes greater transparency and fairness in the digital economy, while addressing issues such as property of data and online security. 

Differences between Web1, Web2 and Web3

The integration of Web1, Web2 and Web3 concepts has the potential to create a more inclusive and accessible web for all users. 

Here you can find some of their differences: 

In conclusion, the Internet has evolved a lot since its inception and will continue to do so in the future. 

Each iteration has enabled greater collaboration and connectivity among users, leading to the creation of new forms of interaction and emerging technologies.

Did you know the differences between Web1, Web2 and Web3?

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The internet of things: how technology is connecting the world

We live in the age of interconnection, and it is unusual to see people who do not have at least one smartphone or Internet at home. 

So much so, that a technological trend called "the Internet of Things" has been created, and that is what we are going to talk about in this article, since it being a non-tangible concept, there are people who may not fully understand what it is. 

You will find here a first approach to IoT and what we can expect from an increasingly interconnected world.

What is IoT 

The Internet of Things, abbreviated as IoT, is a network of physical devices or anything that can be connected to the Internet and remotely controlled or monitored. 

How IoT works

The IoT devices are our eyes and ears when we can't physically be there, as they capture the data they are programmed to collect. 

The IoT works with a network of connected devices that communicate with each other through sensors, software and network connectivity.

The sensors collect data, which is processed by the software and sent using network connectivity. 

This data can then be analyzed and used to improve efficiency, reduce costs and optimize quality of life.

What are the pros and cons of the Internet of Things?

The IoT offers many benefits for both consumers and businesses. Some of them are: 

  • Increased efficiency, the IoT enables the automation of processes, thus reducing costs.
  • Improved quality of life through smart solutions for the home or business, such as smart thermostats and security systems.
  • Creation of new business opportunities in areas such as healthcare, manufacturing and agriculture.
  • Increased security through real-time surveillance and monitoring systems.

Despite the many benefits of IoT, there are also significant challenges to consider: 

  • IoT raises privacy and security concerns, as devices are vulnerable to cyber attacks if not properly secured and can collect and share sensitive data about users without their knowledge or consent. 
  • There are still no universal standards and protocols for IoT, making interoperability between devices and networks difficult.
  • The IoT can be costly and complex to implement, especially for smaller companies.
  • If we rely too heavily on IoT devices to perform everyday tasks, we could be in trouble if they fail or are compromised.

How is IoT changing our lives?

The IoT is transforming our lives in many ways. 

Because it allows for endless opportunities and connections, some of which we can't even imagine today.

We can now control our homes more efficiently with smart devices that turn on the lights, adjust the thermostat, turn on the security system or open the doors automatically. 

And smart cities are using IoT to optimize traffic management, reduce pollution and improve public safety.

What devices are connected to the IoT?

The Internet of Things is not just limited to everyday household items, but encompasses a wide range of devices. 

Some examples of IoT devices include:

  • Thermostats, doorbells and security systems for smart homes.
  • Household appliances and devices.
  • Wearables for health and fitness tracking.
  • Diagnostics for autonomous vehicles.
  • Automation for smart factories.
  • Lighting and traffic systems for smart cities.
  • Crop monitoring.
  • Retail supply chain supervision.
  • Disease detection and diagnosis.
  • Environmental sensors (e.g., air quality or humidity). 

What are the applications of IoT?

 IoT has a wide range of applications in various sectors. Some of the most common are:

  • Health and wellness. IoT is used in health and wellness monitoring, with wearables and sensors collecting and transmitting information on physical activity, sleep and other aspects of health.
  • Manufacturing: In this case, the Internet of Things is used to control and automate processes, improve efficiency and reduce costs.
  • Agriculture: IoT is used to monitor and supervise crop growth, soil quality and other aspects of the agricultural environment.
  • Renewable energy: IoT can help verify the generation of renewable energy, such as solar and wind power. 

 What is the future of IoT?

The future of IoT is exciting and full of possibilities. Adoption of IoT devices and solutions is expected to continue to grow across all industries, leading to greater efficiency and improved quality of life. 

Some emerging trends and technologies that may shape the future of IoT: 

  • 5G.
  • Blockchain.
  • Artificial intelligence.
  • Edge computing.

In conclusion, the Internet of Things is a technology that is changing the way we interact with the world around us and its use will continue to grow as new applications are developed and technical and security challenges are overcome. 

And you, how many devices have you connected to the IoT in your personal life and in your business?

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Differences between cloud computing solutions: SaaS, PaaS and IaaS

Cloud computing has become one of the most widely used technologies in the business world due to its efficiency, scalability and security. 

Within cloud computing solutions, there are several options: SaaS, PaaS and IaaS. 

All of them share certain characteristics, although each has a specific focus and functionality. 

In this article, we will explain you the differences between SaaS, PaaS and IaaS to help you understand and decide which option is best for your company.

What is cloud computing?

Cloud computing is becoming increasingly popular.

It is based on a service architecture, which allows users to access computing resources over the Internet. 

These resources are hosted on remote servers, managed by cloud service providers, rather than being located on a local server.

Users access these resources through a web interface or application from anywhere in the world, as long as they have an Internet connection and the necessary access credentials.

SaaS (Software as a Service) 

SaaS is the most common cloud computing solution. In fact, many of us use SaaS on a daily basis. 

The SaaS model makes software accessible through an application or web browser that can be accessed with an Internet connection. This modality is offered in general-use programs (horizontal SaaS) or dedicated by sectors (vertical SaaS) programs. They are designed to meet the requirements of a wide range of users and are often modular to allow some customization according to the user's needs.

Its versatility makes this modality the most popular for companies of all sizes, as it allows them to eliminate a significant initial investment in software, replacing the purchase of a specific program with the pay-per-use of a SaaS application that meets their requirements. 

Some examples of SaaS are Google Workspace, Slack or Notion. In addition to these well-known international options, there are local software development companies that offer specific SaaS solutions for professional guilds or user communities. 

PaaS (Platform as a Service) 

PaaS provides software developers with a platform to create, test and deploy applications in the cloud. 

Rather than software that directly solves business problems, PaaS solutions focus on providing a set of tools, libraries and services that enable developers to test and deploy the original code and forks of their software.

PaaS is considered a suitable solution for developers looking to focus on deploying and managing their applications without having to worry about the underlying infrastructure.

Some more common examples of PaaS include Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), Microsoft Azure and Salesforce Heroku.

IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) 

IaaS provides access to hardware computing resources in the cloud such as servers, virtual machines, storage and networks over the Internet. 

Some of its key features are: 

  • Flexibility. 
  • Scalability. 
  • Total control over the configuration and use of resources. 

With IaaS, companies can scale their infrastructure according to their needs without having to worry about purchasing additional hardware and software. Virtual machines allow almost unlimited scaling of server capacity.

Some of its disadvantages include the complexity and cost of managing the infrastructure.

The most popular examples of IaaS are Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud and IBM Cloud. 

Differences between Saas, PaaS and IaaS 

The differences between SaaS, PaaS and IaaS lie in the level of control, responsibility and customization that users have over the infrastructure and platform. 

With SaaS there is less control, since the software is ready, the user has access to the applications, but cannot customize either the application or the infrastructure. The service provider is responsible for managing and maintaining them. 

In PaaS, the user accesses a platform that has tools for the development, deployment and maintenance of the application, which in this case can be tailored to the user, but there is no possibility of accessing the underlying infrastructure. Developers focus on the code and logic of the application, as well as its customization.

In contrast, with IaaS, the user can access the underlying infrastructure, such as servers, storage and networks, and has a higher level of customization and control over it. 

How to choose the right solution for your business

The choice of the most suitable cloud computing solution will depend on your company's needs and objectives.

If you need ready-to-use software and applications, SaaS is a good option. You just have to find the tool that meets your requirements.

On the other hand, if your business requires more customization, it will be more convenient to develop your own application, which can be done on a platform that provides application development and management tools. In this case we recommend a tailor-made development supported by a PaaS solution. 

And if your company requires a complete online IT infrastructure, IaaS will be the most suitable solution.

Bonus track: Have you heard of XaaS?

Given the popularity of cloud-based solutions such as IaaS, PaaS and SaaS, it is not surprising that more services are migrating to the cloud. 

The term XaaS refers to "Anything as a Service" and represents the infinite service possibilities available for Internet users. 

XaaS is an attractive option for emerging businesses that need to limit investment costs

Some of the most common services within the XaaS category: are: 

  • Network as a Service (NaaS).
  • Storage as a Service (StaaS).
  • Disaster Recovery as a Service (DRaaS).

In conclusion, cloud computing has changed the way businesses handle their data and applications.

Each solution has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to understand them and seek advice before choosing one for your business.

And now, tell us, are you thinking about creating a cloud solution for your company and want to know more? Do not hesitate to contact us, we can help you. 

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Backup: everything you need to know

In the digital world we live in, data is one of the most valuable assets. 

From photos of family and friends to important files, such as contracts, documents and work presentations, everything is stored on our devices.

But what if you were to lose everything you've stored on your devices at a moment's notice? If you haven't backed up, that's just what could happen.

What is a backup?

A copy of the data you have on an electronic device (computer, mobile or tablet), which is stored in a secure location external to the device itself.

Why is it important to perform backups?

Backing up is essential to protect your files, critical information and ensure its availability at all times, in case your computer suffers a problem such as hard disk failure, theft, fire or accidental data loss, among others. 

In an increasingly digitized world, where most information is stored on electronic devices, backups provide peace of mind. 

Because knowing that your data is backed up and retrievable in case of emergency can relieve you of stress and worry.

In addition, it saves you time and money when there is a loss of data.

Keep in mind that if you do not have a backup copy of your files, you may lose them forever.

Types of backup

  • Full backup: involves making a complete backup of all your files and data. 

It is the most reliable way to protect your data, as you have a complete copy of everything you have stored in your devices. 

However, it is costly in terms of time and resources required. However, it guarantees complete data recovery in the event of a disaster.

  • Incremental backup: this is a copy of the files that have been modified or created since the last backup. 

This saves time and storage space. It is also considered more efficient than a full backup. Still, it can be more complex to restore. 

  • Differential backup: this is a copy of all changes made since the last full backup, i.e. new and changed files and data. It requires more storage space and is more difficult to restore.

How to make backups?

Oddly enough, performing a backup is a quick and easy process.

There are different ways to perform backups, and the choice of one or another will depend on the needs and preferences of each user. 

Here are ways to make a backup::

  • Manual backup: this involves copying important files from your computer to an external storage device, such as an external hard disk, CD or USB.
  • Automated backup: in this case, specialized programs are used to schedule and automate backups on a regular basis. 
  • Cloud backup: The cloud is one of the most popular options for creating backups. Hence, files and data are stored in online storage services such as Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive or iCloud.

How often should you back up your data?

It will depend on the type of information you are backing up, where it is used and how often you update it, and it is recommended that you back up your data at least once a month..

However, if you have critical information that changes frequently, such as databases or important files, it is best to make daily or weekly backups..

Best practices for an effective backup

Here are some tips for creating a data backup:

  • Plan what data you are going to save and how often you will perform the backup. 
  • Choose a reliable backup tool that suits you or your company's needs. 
  • Store your backups in a safe place out of reach of potential threats such as fire, flood or theft. 

Therefore, we recommend that you use cloud services or external devices such as external hard drives or USB flash drives.

  • Verify that the backup has been done properly and that the data can be restored without problems. 
  • Keep backups up to date and don't forget to make additional copies of critical data at key times, such as before major upgrades or traveling with devices containing important information.

In conclusion, carrying out a backup (or several backups) is considered essential to save your files and protect critical information, to ensure its availability at all times and also to avoid serious consequences in case of loss of information of a professional nature. 

So do not neglect this task. Remember that it is better to be safe than sorry. So don't wait until it's too late to start performing backups. 

And you, do you back up your files and data regularly? 

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Differences between hosting and domain: everything you need to know to have your website

Are you thinking about creating a website? Then you have probably heard of two important terms: hosting and domain. 

They get often mixed up because both are necessary to get your website started. 

In this article, we explain what is hosting and domain, and how they differ from each other.

What is a domain?

A domain is the name that identifies your website, the address that is typed in the browser for anyone to access it.   

It is composed of two parts: the domain name and the extension.

For instance, if you have a company called "Floristería Briseida", your domain and its extension could be www.floristeriabriseida.com. 

Keep in mind that the domain is unique and cannot be repeated on the Internet. That is why, if somebody has already registered a domain, no one else will be able to use it. 

The domain names have different extensions such as .com, .org, .net. edu, .us, .uk, .info, .biz, .online, .site, .app, .boutique, .tienda, florist, .finance, .media, .tech, among others. 

How does a domain work and how does it relate to an IP address?

A domain and its IP can be assimilated to a physical address and its latitude and longitude coordinates. Both refer to the same physical space, but it is easier for ordinary people to locate a place by its name than by its coordinates.

When a user accesses your domain from his browser, it looks for the IP address associated with that domain. 

Once located, the browser communicates with the server to request the website content.

An IP address is a series of numbers that identifies the location of the server on which your website is hosted. 

Something like this: 209.85.128.0. 

So your brain would find it much easier to remember "google.com" than 209.85.128.0, wouldn't it?

What is hosting?

Hosting, or web hosting, is a service that allows you to store your website on a server, so it is considered the place where files and data are stored

When a user wants to access your website, his browser communicates with the server to request the content of the website.

There are several types of hosting:

  • Shared hosting.
  • Dedicated hosting. 
  • Cloud hosting. 
  • VPS Hosting.  
  • Hosting for WordPress. 

What are the differences between domain and hosting?

Although hosting and domain are terms related to online presence, they are distinct.

The domain is like your home address and the hosting is like the building where you live.

Both are necessary for your website to be available. 

So without a domain, people won't find your website. And without hosting, there is no place to host your website.

Therefore, you cannot create a website without first buying a domain name. However, you can have a domain name without creating a website.

Both the hosting and the domain must be renewed periodically and independently; the domain name is usually renewed in annual or bi-annual periods, while the hosting is renewed according to the service plan you have chosen.

How to choose the right hosting and domain for your business or project

Now that you know the differences between hosting and domain, it is important that you know how to choose the right one for your needs. 

Some factors that you should consider when hiring a hosting:

  • Depending on the size of your website, you will need hosting with adequate capacity to ensure that it loads quickly and does not slow down. 
  • Select a hosting that offers reliable technical support in case of problems or errors. So look for a hosting company with a good track record of customer support.
  • There are many different hosting providers on the market, each with different plans and prices. So choose one that fits your budget.

And these are the factors you should take into account when choosing a domain name: 

  • Select a domain name that is easy to remember and spell. Don't forget to include your company name or something related to what you offer.
  • There are many different domain extensions available, such as .com, .org, .net, among others. So opt for one that fits your company or project. 
  • Before deciding on a domain name, confirm that it is available for registration. You can check the availability of a domain name on several domain registration websites.

In short, domain and hosting are two different terms, but equally essential when it comes to creating a website. 

We hope you are now clear on the differences between the two terms and how they go hand in hand when boosting your website.

And now tell us, are you considering creating a website for your business or project? 

If so, contact us because we can surely help you. If you liked this article and you think it can be useful for someone, do not hesitate to share it.

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What is web accessibility and why is it so important?

Have you ever experienced entering a website and finding it difficult to navigate?

Maybe it happened to you that you couldn't read the content or that the buttons weren't big enough to click on easily. And this is exactly what web accessibility is all about. 

In this article we explain what web accessibility is, why it is important and how you can improve it so that more people can have a better experience in your website.

What is web accessibility?

Web accessibility focuses on making websites easy to use for anyone, regardless of their abilities or disabilities. 

How is this achieved? By enabling everyone to access information and services online without barriers.

So it should be noted that accessibility not only benefits people with disabilities, but also improves the user experience for everyone.

By making websites more accessible, barriers are removed so that anyone can access information and services online, and this helps to increase traffic and participation on the web.

Web accessibility is governed by international guidelines and standards, such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) established by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). 

And W3C is the leader of the Web Accessibility Initiative, whose guidelines are used in legislation in many countries around the world.

The WCAG guidelines are divided into three levels of compliance: A, AA and AAA. Being the level AA the recommended for most websites, as it provides a high level of accessibility without being too demanding in terms of time and resources.

Why is web accessibility important?

Web accessibility is important for many reasons. Some of them are:

  • Legal compliance: Many countries have laws that require websites to be accessible to people with disabilities. Therefore, if a website is not accessible, you may face legal sanctions and fines.
  • Expanding the audience: Web accessibility helps reach a wider audience, including people with disabilities (physical, cognitive, visual and hearing), seniors and those who need assistive technologies.
  • Improve user experience: An accessible website makes it easier for all users to access it and this makes them have a better experience. 
  • SEO benefits: Accessible websites are easily indexed by search engines and increase online visibility.

How to make your website more accessible?

If you want to improve the accessibility of your website, here are some of them advice:

  1. Use appropriate HTML tags. HTML tags are essential for Web accessibility, as they provide information about the structure and content of the Web site. 

Therefore, use appropriate tags such as H1, H2, H3 and alt tags for images.

  1. It provides detailed descriptions in images, captions, transcripts, and audio and video descriptions to ensure that all information is available to any user. 
  1. Make your website easy to navigate, with a clear and coherent structure. 
  1. Use appropriate colors and contrasts to make the content more readable. 
  1. Insert detailed descriptions in the forms so that people with cognitive disabilities can understand the purpose of each field.
  1. Make sure the website is compatible with assistive devices, such as screen readers, special keyboards and other input devices.
  1. Test the accessibility of your website with online validation tools to identify and fix accessibility issues.

Remember that the lack of web accessibility can hinder or prevent access to information and online services, so it is important to ensure it if we want to have a more inclusive society.

By using web accessibility techniques, your website will be more accessible to everyone, including those with physical, cognitive, visual and hearing disabilities. 

And now, have you checked how accesible your website is? You can tell us in the comments. 

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8 essential elements that a website should have

In today's digital age, having an online presence is essential for any business or venture that wants to be known to the world. So a website has become a powerful tool to achieve that goal. 

Are you looking to create an effective website, but don't know where to start? 

Don't worry, in this article we are going to share with you the essential elements that you should take into account so that your website is effective, captures the attention of your audience and retains visitors.

What elements are essential for an effective website? 

Define the objectives of your website

Before you start creating your website, it is important that you define who you are targeting and what your goals are. Once you have a clear idea of your target audience, you can design a website that responds to their needs, desires and appeals to them.

Choose a domain name and web hosting

The first step in creating a website is to choose a domain name and web hosting. 

Regarding the domain name, you have to select one that is easy to remember and related to your business or brand

As for web hosting, be sure to choose a reliable hosting provider to ensure that your website is easily accessible, secure and loads quickly.

Choose a suitable platform

Before you start creating a website you should be clear about which platform and how much time you are going to invest in it.

One of the ways you can consider when developing a website is to have a programmer do it with code (HTML, CSS, JS, PHP...). 

On the other hand, there are many platforms to create websites: WordPress, Shopify, PrestaShop, Magento. 

Therefore, it is key that you choose the one that best suits your needs and objectives. 

Web design and structure

The interface of your website is the first impression that visitors will have of your company. That's why it must be user-friendly and easy to use. 

Make sure the navigation is intuitive and that visitors can easily find what they are looking for. 

Avoid overly complex navigation structures. The simpler it is, the easier it will be for your users to access the pages containing the information they are looking for.

Also, use a clear and concise menu to guide users through your website.

And don't forget to make sure that the design is responsive to improve the user experience, that is, that it looks good on different devices: PCs, laptops, cell phones and tablets.

Create relevant and quality content

Once visitors are on your website, you need to capture their attention with content. So it must it must be relevant, informative, useful and easy to understand. so that it responds to the needs of your potential customers. 

Some ways to do this are by creating a blog, offering useful resources, sharing case studies or interesting stories, among others.

The content has to be organized in a clear and coherent way. Use headings and subheadings, bulleted lists and short paragraphs to make your content easier to scan and read.

This can help you to improve the positioning of your website in Google search results.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Search engine optimization is essential for your web page to appear in the first search results on Google. 

Therefore, it is essential to use keywords and have good content to improve positioning in search results. 

In addition, having a clear and concise URL structure, descriptive meta tags and a sitemap is taken into account by search engine algorithms to rank pages.

Web accessibility and speed

Accessibility and web page loading speed are two key elements to improve the user experience. 

If your website takes too long to load, users will leave before they have had a chance to explore it. 

So make sure it is accessible from different devices and has a fast loading speed to prevent visitors from getting bored and abandoning the page.

Website security

Web security is essential to prevent cyber attacks and protect your customers' information. 

So use strong passwords, regularly update your software and have an SSL certificate to keep your customers' information secure and prevent hackers from accessing it.

In short, these are some of the essential elements you need to have an effective website that attracts and retains visitors and improves the visibility of your online business. 

Remember that the main goal of your website is to provide a positive experience for visitors.

And now tell us, have you already created the web for your business? are you thinking about it? If it is the second option, we can help you with it, you just need to contact us

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The 6 phases of Design Thinking and why they are important

The Design Thinking is a working methodology that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its user-centered approach and its ability to generate innovative and creative solutions. 

Below, we explain the phases of Design Thinking and give you an example of a logistics company that can use it to design a mobile application that allows customers to track their shipments in real time. 

What are the phases of Design Thinking?

As every process has its phases and Design Thinking was not going to be less. So here we go: 

Phase 1: Empathize

Every company must know and understand the needs, desires, limitations and expectations of the end user. 

Therefore, empathy is key to design effective solutions, since it allows identifying the real problems that users face on a daily basis.

This requires field research and interviews with users, observing their behaviors and experiences, and putting yourself in their shoes to understand their perspectives and needs. 

In the case of the logistics company, the application development team can use techniques such as observation and interviewing to understand the needs and desires of customers in terms of tracking their shipments.

Phase 2: Problem definition

In this phase, the information obtained in the previous phase is used to establish a clear and specific definition of the problem in order to generate effective ideas in the next phase. The objectives to be achieved with the proposed solution are also defined.

For our example, one of the purposes may be to reduce the time it takes for customers to obtain information about their shipments.

Phase 3: Ideation 

The problem has been defined, so it's time to start thinking of solutions. Don't set limits, since the wider the range of ideas, the more creative, innovative and effective the solutions will be.

To achieve this, you can employ different creative thinking techniques, such as brainstorming or mindmapping. 

In the case of the logistics company, one of the ideas would be to create a real-time shipment tracking system through a mobile application for customers. 

Phase 4: Prototyping

In this stage, a tangible version of the ideas generated in the previous phase is created. 

This version is known as a prototype and can be a drawing, a paper model or a software design, which makes it possible to visualize the idea in a more concrete way.

This is done with the intention of getting early feedback from users to know which solutions are the most effective.

In our example, a mockup or simulation of the mobile application could be designed to get customer feedback and make improvements.

Phase 5: Testing

Now is the time to test the prototypes with users in order to validate or reject the proposed solutions, to iterate and improve.

In the case of the logistics company, usability testing of the mobile application can be done with a group of customers to validate the prototype developed in the previous phase. 

In fact, the feedback obtained is used to iterate and improve the solutions.

Phase 6: Implementation

Once the solutions have been tested with users and improvements have been made, the final implementation begins. 

In this phase, the team executes the solutions designed to solve the problem and improve the user experience. 

Here it is key that the team is committed to the implementation and ensures that the objectives established in the definition phase are respected.

In the case of the example, once the improvements have been implemented in the mobile application and we have ensured that the essential functionalities are working well, the application is released to the general public.

You can see that each phase has a specific objective and different techniques are used to achieve it.

We hope this explanation has helped you to better understand how Design Thinking works. 

If you have any questions or need help to apply this methodology in your business, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you solve any problem you may have using effective technological solutions focused on your customers' needs.

Y tú, ¿utilizas el design thinking en tu empresa?