Below is an ever-growing list of resources related to design, branding, web, marketing, and entrepreneurship, catered to you and your business.
All resources and links below are ones I've used myself and recommend.
In the future I will reference this page quite often in the blog. I recommend bookmarking it for your reference and convenience. If you know of a valuable resource for businesses and/or entrepreneurs that you find helpful, I'd love to hear from you.
Click a category below to jump.
1. Design & Branding
Questionnaires
In need of a new logo/visual identity or website? I've created these two client questionnaires as a way to determine your needs, wants, and goals. Regardless of which designer you work with, it's important to make sure you (and the designer) know the answers to these questions before proceeding.
• Colourshape Client Questionnaire: Logo/Visual Identity
• Colourshape Client Questionnaire: Website
Stock Photos
Regardless of the size of your business, stock photos can be a great way to spruce up your visual communication material (and ensure you use royalty-free images that aren't copyrighted). Below are my favourite stock photo sites (note that the paid sites generally have a better selection).
PAID
• iStock
• ShutterStock
• ThinkStock
2. Web
Website/Blogging Platforms
Squarespace
The platform Colourshape is built on, Squarespace combines clean, modern design with an easy-to-use interface and templates that even non-designers can work with.
Wordpress
Reportedly over 25% of the Internet is powered by Wordpress-built websites, and for good reason: it is perhaps the most flexible content management system. Basic programming knowledge is recommended.
Weebly
Similar to Squarespace, Weebly offers an easy drag-and-drop interface that requires little programming skill. Template selection is limited, but the designs are stylish and modern.
Domain Registrars/Hosts
BlueHost
Planning on building your website in Wordpress? BlueHost is by far the most recommended domain registrar and hosting provider for Wordpress sites, featuring one-click installation and excellent customer service.
Namecheap
Selected as a best domain name registrar in a Lifehacker poll from 2010 to 2015, Namecheap offers very affordable prices and a flexible domain management system.
GoDaddy
The world's largest and most well-known domain registrar, GoDaddy can't be beat when it comes to registering your domain name; their hosting services have had mixed reviews, however.
3. Marketing
Blogs
Duct Tape Marketing
A great blog for those who really want to immerse themselves in the world of small business marketing. Includes detailed blog posts on SEO strategies, customer acquisition, and advertising techniques among other topics.
Buffer
Buffer is a valuable tool that lets you schedule posts to your social media accounts. Their blog offers a wealth of great articles related to marketing, productivity, and running a successful business.
Jim's Marketing Blog
Don't let the plain name fool you—Jim Connolly's blog is fantastic for both beginners and seasoned business owners alike, focusing on helping you boost sales and profits.
4. Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneur.com
This is generally the first website new entrepreneurs stumble across when looking for valuable information on how to run and market their business (I know I did). And for good reason—it remains one of the best resources on the web for business owners.
James Altucher
A serial entrepreneur, James is also one of the most entertaining podcasters around. His engaging and informative blog posts and books touch on a variety of subjects that will help you become a better entrepreneur...and person.
