When you’re running a business, the last thing you want is a techy web developer throwing acronyms at you like it’s a second language. CMS, SEO, SSL, UX… what?
At Rhythm Digital, we reckon websites should be built with people in mind, not just coders. That’s why we’ve pulled together a quick glossary to help cut through the noise and make sense of the terms you’ll often hear when talking about websites.
Think of this as your website’s street address. It’s what people type into their browser to find you (like rhythmdigital.com.au).
If your domain is the address, hosting is the land your website sits on. Without it, there’s nowhere for your site to live.
This is the dashboard where you log in and make changes to your site. If you can use Word or Google Docs, you can usually handle a CMS.
This means your website looks good on any device, whether someone’s on a laptop in Tamworth, a tablet in Sydney, or scrolling on their phone at the footy.
That little padlock symbol next to your web address. It shows visitors your site is secure, essential if you’re collecting details or payments.
In plain English: it’s how we help Google find you. SEO makes sure your website shows up when people are searching for the services you offer.
This is all about how easy (or hard) your site is to use. A good UX means people stick around. A bad one sends them running.
The little caption behind an image (in the site’s code) that says what the image is (so Google, screen-readers & people with slow connections know what’s going on). Helps with accessibility + SEO.
A specific page someone “lands” on (from an ad, link, email). Usually built for one job: get a sign-up, sale, download.
The visible, clickable text in a link (“Click here”, “Our services” etc.). Good anchor text = gives a clue what the linked page is about.
A permanent redirect from one web address to another (so if you change URLs you don’t lose all the SEO value).
The % of visitors who arrive on your website and leave without interacting further. High bounce = could mean your page isn’t relevant or doesn’t invite action.
A link/URL that’s intended to stay the same for a long time (so you won’t break bookmarks, social shares etc).
A sketch/blueprint of a webpage’s layout (before you add colour, images, polish). Like an architectural “floor plan” for your website.
The number of times a piece of content (ad, page, image) is shown. Doesn’t guarantee engagement, just the view count.
Content (reviews, photos, videos) made by your customers or audience rather than you. Builds trust and authenticity.
You don’t need to be a tech expert to run a successful business online. But knowing the basics makes it easier to have clear conversations, spot opportunities, and avoid getting lost in the lingo.
When you work with us at Rhythm Digital, we’ll always explain things in plain language, no smoke, no mirrors. Just websites and marketing that work.
Next time you hear a developer drop a buzzword, you’ll know exactly what they’re talking about. And if you don’t? We’re only a call away.
Ready to cut through the jargon and get a website that speaks your language?
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Rhythm Digital acknowledges the Gamilaroi/Kamilaroi people, who are the Traditional Custodians of the land we live and work on. We would like to pay respect to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples living in our region.