DesignStudio101. I spent a good part of tonight simply trying to find the status of an expired domain. Yes, it was one that I do design work for. No, I have no Administrative access to the account. Hence, I was paddling up stream without a paddle. js 02.27.05

The Sequel… 03.05.05

As it turned out, everything fell into place just fine. All it took was a phone call from the client to their Domain Registrar, a credit card payment for a past-due bill and everything was okie-dokie.

And, moi? Besides the rantings… I calmed down but learned a few lessons.

Firstly. Look for the facts, not the excuses.

Secondly. Don't be such a tight-ass about making sure everything goes your way.

Thirdly. Do what you can to make things work. Somethings are not going to fit into place all the time. Just think about moving forward.

Lastly. Make it a point to check on Domain Registrations for all clients. Whether they listed through Northwest Village or not.

Granted, for most people dealing with me can be a challenge. I confess to it. I'm not the easiest person on the planet to get along with. But, when it comes to web-stuff… I'm fairly good (and modest).

Case in Point. I try to steer my clients away from handling their own domain registrations. Why?

For the most part, they feel they can get a better deal on their own, mainly by using the discount Registrars. But, do they? Granted, in the majority of the cases things go well. They save a ton of money, well $20 or so dollars a year, and things go along fine. BUT, and that's a big BUT, there are times when things do not work well. [As they did for a client of mine this evening.]

I've used Network Solutions since I began designing web sites. I have not - ever - had a problem with them. In fact, they've helped me tremendously when there were problems with domains registered elsewhere. I've appreciated that, and always figured it was worth the premium I pay for their services.

When I can't persuade a client to change their Registrar, I usually ask to be listed as an Administrator on their existing account. To be honest, I do not know if this is a common practice or not. But, it works. Oftentimes just having that access to the account can save serious money, headache and inner-turmoil. And, if something goes wrong, you have someone to blame besides yourself. [continue - left column]