Peter Smith, Author at Daptl

Buying a Domain Name: What You Need to Know Before You Start

Peter Smith — Wed, 09 Apr 2025 14:58:07 +0000

Is It Really Buying?

First off, let’s clarify something. While we often call it “buying” a domain, it’s more like leasing or subscribing. You’ll need to pay for it every year (or whatever billing cycle you choose) to keep ownership.

What’s a TLD?

Another important term to know is TLD, or top-level domain. This refers to the part of the domain name after the dot—like .com, .ca, .org, or more customized options like .social, .bike, .tv, and so on. These custom TLDs tend to cost more than common ones like .com.

Historically, .com was meant for companies, .org for organizations, etc. Every country has its own TLD as well—.ca for Canada, .co for Colombia, .uk for the United Kingdom, and so on. Some countries restrict their TLDs to citizens or residents, while others don’t. For example, I believe there are still rules around owning a .ca domain, though it’s been so long since I set mine up that I forget the exact details. UK companies often use .co.uk rather than just .uk, for reasons I’m not entirely sure of—but hey, that’s what Google is for!

Where Do You Get a Domain?

The companies that sell domains are called Domain Name Registrars. You’ve probably heard of some of the bigger ones, like GoDaddy, from advertisements. I won’t recommend any one company over another—you’ll want to do your own research, as pricing and plans can be a bit confusing. That said, in today’s digital landscape, I personally recommend going with a Canadian company.

How to Find a Name That Works

Most registrars have a search interface that lets you check whether your desired domain name is available. If it’s not, you might need to get creative—either rethink the name or try a different TLD.

Watch Out for Upsells

Be cautious during the checkout process. Many registrars try to upsell you on additional services like website builders, email hosting, SEO tools, and more. These add-ons might sound convenient, but they can quickly drive up the cost. A site built using a registrar’s proprietary builder might also be difficult (or impossible) to move to another hosting provider later on, as we mentioned in our previous post.

One Add-On That’s Worth It

One add-on I do recommend is privacy protection. By default, domain ownership information—like your name and address—is publicly available via a “WHOIS” lookup. Most registrars offer privacy protection (under various names) to hide your details and replace them with a proxy name and contact information. This is worth paying for, in my opinion.

What’s Next?

Next up, we’ll talk about hosting!

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Take Back Your Voice Online

Peter Smith — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 14:35:33 +0000

The World Is Changing

Social media, once the bastion of sharing, has now become a battleground—full of bots and disinformation designed to ignite controversy and sow seeds that empower the powerful. Your information, ideas, and thoughts get lost to the algorithm and, over time, buried in the noise.

What to Do?

The answer has been there all along: take control of your own thoughts—your ideas, your ramblings even—and keep them where you can find them in the future. Tag them, categorize them, share and reshare. Or just post willy-nilly. Let it be yours.

But you might say:

“It’s hard.”
“I don’t know where to start.”
“I’m not a techie.”

And sure, all of that might be true. But the basics are—well—basic, if you take the time to learn and know where to begin.

So What Are the Basics?

In my opinion, they are:

What is a domain, and how do I get one?
What is hosting, and why do I need it? I have a domain—how do they work together?
How do I even create a website? It’s all techy—HTML and stuff—and I don’t know any of that!

I plan to put together a series that dives into each of these topics (and more), but for now, here are some very simple answers:

1. What’s a Domain?

It’s your address on the internet.

Back in the day, properties often had names, and many modern apartment buildings still do. Your domain might be something like myfullname.com. It has to be unique—otherwise people might end up at the wrong “myfullname”! While .com is the most common, there are plenty of other options—we’ll talk about those later. You buy domains through what’s called a domain name registrar.

2. What’s Hosting, and Why Do I Need It?

Think of your domain as your address—but you still need a piece of land to put your signpost on. That’s hosting. It’s the place where your site actually “lives.” Many registrars also offer hosting, and that might be good enough for you.

But be aware: they often lock you into proprietary systems, making it hard to move your site later. Hosting providers lease you space and let you attach your domain name to it. You then connect the two—your name and your land.

3. How Do I Create a Website?

Yes, it can be technical—but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of tools that let you build a decent-looking site quickly and easily.

While I’m not its biggest fan, the most common and arguably easiest platform is WordPress. At its core, it’s blogging software, but with free and paid add-ons, you can expand it to include things like event calendars, image galleries, and more.

You can even start with a free WordPress.com site, using their hosting and a subdomain (like yourname.wordpress.com). If you want your own domain later, you can pay a small fee—or even migrate your site to a self-hosted WordPress setup. It’s fairly straightforward.

Stay Tuned

I’ll be posting more detailed guides and explanations on each of these topics—and more—in the near future!

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Introducing Python Modules: Organize, Reuse, and Simplify Your Code

Peter Smith — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 11:19:00 +0000

In our previous discussion, we delved into the fundamental aspects of programming, introducing the core concepts of sequence, selection, and repetition. In the earlier evolution of programming, the coding landscape allowed us to place all our code within a single file, which would execute from top to bottom. This traditional coding paradigm, while functional, can become unwieldy as projects grow in complexity.

Previously, we mentioned our intention to delve into object-oriented programming (OOP). However, before we embark on that journey, it’s crucial to delve deeper into some fundamental concepts. These fundamentals will not only provide a solid foundation for our understanding of OOP but will also resurface as key principles in the realm of object-oriented programming.

In today’s exploration, we will further broaden our horizons. To begin, we’ll introduce the concept of functions and then venture into the basics of python modules. To facilitate this learning journey, let’s start by creating a new folder named “lesson2” and copying the Dockerfile and docker-compose.yaml file from our previous lesson into it.

Now, let’s consider an example:

# Defining two functions. Any function called by another must be defined before the calling function, hence the order here.
def my_other_function(value):
    print(f"My other function prints the passed value of: {value}")

def my_function():
    print("This function will call my other function")
    my_other_function(7)

Save this code in a file named “functions.py” and execute it using the command: docker-compose run my-environment python functions.py.

Surprisingly, nothing seems to happen! That’s because our “functions.py” file contains functions but lacks a call to “my_function” to trigger “my_other_function.”

Different programming languages handle the execution of such code in various ways. In Python, specifically for standalone scripts like this, we rely on a somewhat magical attribute called “name.” When we run a file directly, “name” is set to “main,” and we can determine if the file has been executed by comparing these two values.

To resolve this, let’s edit our file and add the following code at the bottom:

if __name__ == "__main__":
    my_function()

Now, execute this file again using the command: docker-compose run my-environment python functions.py

You’ll notice that it successfully runs the “my_function” function, effectively calling “my_other_function” as well.

Now lets try something a little different. Create a new file called consumer.py and to it add:

# This line allows us to access the "my_function" method, which we created in the "functions" module.
from functions import my_function

if __name__ == "__main__":
    my_function()

Then run it with docker-compose run my-environment python consumer.py
You’ll notice that it successfully runs the “my_function” function from our other file. What we’ve accomplished here is the use of a module!

In Python, a module is essentially a file that contains Python definitions, statements, functions, classes (we’ll discuss these later), and variables. Modules can also include executable code. By grouping related code into a module, we make our code more understandable, maintainable, and reusable. This organizational approach also brings a logical structure to our codebase.

As we progress in our programming journey, we’ll explore modules further and learn how to harness their power for more complex projects. Stay tuned for more insights into code modularity and the world of Python programming!

Next time out, Objects. I promise!

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Embarking on Your Programming Journey

Peter Smith — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 18:15:00 +0000

Now that you’ve successfully set up your Python environment using Docker, it’s time to delve into the fascinating world of computer programming. In this section, we’ll explore the foundational concepts that form the backbone of programming knowledge.

Evolution of Programming Languages

The journey of computer programming has been marked by remarkable evolution over the years. It all began with machine language, a cryptic world of binary code consisting of 0s and 1s. As the years passed, programming languages evolved, and one significant milestone was Assembler. This lower-level language relied on symbols and concise commands, simplifying low-level computer operations.

Today, we work with modern, human-readable programming languages that have made the process of coding more accessible and efficient.

Programming Paradigms

With the emergence of these modern languages came different programming paradigms, each with its unique approach. Two of the most prominent paradigms are Structured Programming and Object-Oriented Programming (OOP). Let’s take a brief look at each of them:

Structured Programming:

Structured programming is all about breaking down a program into smaller, manageable functions or procedures.
It follows a linear or top-down approach, ensuring a clear sequence of execution.
This paradigm is renowned for its simplicity and is well-suited for smaller, less complex applications.

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP):

OOP is centered on the concept of “objects,” which represent instances of classes or templates encapsulating data and behavior.
It encourages organizing code around objects and their interactions, simplifying the modeling of real-world entities.
OOP languages like Java, C++, and Python facilitate the creation of reusable and modular code through classes and objects.
It excels in handling complex applications, allowing the modeling of real-world entities and their relationships effectively.

Common Programming Constructs

Both structured programming and OOP share fundamental programming constructs that are essential to your programming journey. These include:

Sequence: The concept of sequence is straightforward – each line of code follows the next, executing in a predictable order. In your “lesson1” folder, create a “sequence.py” file to explore this concept further, running it with the command docker-compose run my-environment python sequence.py either from the command line, or your VS Code terminal.

# In Python, text preceded by a # becomes a comment. Comments are used for documentation and are ignored during code execution.
a = 1  # Comments can also appear after a line of code. Here, "a" is a variable with a value of 1.
b = 2
print("a = " + str(a))  # Text can be built up in Python using the + symbol; this is known as concatenation.
print("b = " + str(b))
c = a + b
print("a + b = " + str(c))
# It's important to note that text is considered a string, while numbers are of various types (e.g., integers).
# Mixing data types can yield unexpected results. For instance, 1 + 2 = 3, but "1" + "2" = "12."
# To concatenate different data types using the + sign in Python, we typically use the str() function to convert integers to strings

Repetition: Repetition, often referred to as looping, is a fundamental concept that enables the execution of a specific block of code multiple times. In this section, we’ll focus on the “While” Loop, but rest assured, we’ll delve into other looping constructs in subsequent lessons. Create a “repetition.py” file to experiment with this concept, running it with the command docker-compose run my-environment python repetition.py either from the command line, or your VS Code terminal.

# Demonstrating the application of a while loop to count from 0 to 19
# It is important to emphasize that in programming languages, delineating the boundaries of code blocks is imperative.
# In Python, we signify the commencement of a block by concluding the preceding line with a colon (:) and then aligning all the code within the block with a four-space indentation.
count = 0
while count < 20:
    print(count)
    count += 1  # Incrementing the count by 1 during each iteration. This is equivalent to count = count + 1.

Selection: Selection involves decision-making and executing specific code blocks based on particular conditions. It adds flexibility and responsiveness to your code’s behavior. Create a “selection.py” file to practice this concept, running it with the command docker-compose run my-environment python selection.py either from the command line, or your VS Code terminal.

# Demonstrating the application of an "if" statement to determine if a number is even or odd
# In programming, "if" statements are employed to evaluate conditions and execute specific code blocks based on the outcome.
# In most languages, the % operator, known as modulus, returns the remainder of a division operation.

number = 7  # You can modify this number to observe different results
if number % 2 == 0:  # Note the use of ==; it's used for value comparison, while a single = is for assignment.
    print(f"{number} is even.")  # In Python, f-strings provide an elegant way for string concatenation and handle datatype conversion automatically when possible.
else:
    print(f"{number} is odd.")

Congratulations

Congratulations on embarking on this programming journey! You’ve already explored foundational concepts like sequence, selection, and repetition, and gained valuable insights into topics such as variables, data types, code blocks, and concatenation.

Now, it’s time for a well-deserved break to recharge. When you’re ready, join us again as we delve into the intriguing world of objects in programming. Remember, you can work through these steps at your own pace, and if you have any questions or encounter challenges, we’re here to help.

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Preparing Your Development Environment: A Step-by-Step Guide

Peter Smith — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 17:13:48 +0000

Before you dive into the world of programming, it’s essential to set up a development environment that allows you to write and run your code effectively. In this section, we’ll guide you through the initial steps, starting with the crucial task of building a Docker container. Don’t worry; it’s a significant step that will pave the way for your programming journey. Plus, remember that assistance is just a message away if you encounter any challenges.

Creating a Dedicated Workspace

To make your programming experience smoother, consider creating a dedicated workspace on your computer. Within this workspace, set up a new directory specifically for our programming lessons. Inside this directory, create a sub-folder and name it “lesson1.” This organized structure will help keep your work neat and tidy as you progress through the lessons.

Setting Up the Docker Environment

We’ll be using Docker to run our code files, and to make this process more user-friendly, we’ll employ Docker Compose. Before we jump into the technical details, let’s outline the necessary steps.

1. Dockerfile: Start by creating a file called “Dockerfile” (note the capital “D” and no file extension). Add the following content to this file:

FROM python:3.11
WORKDIR /app

This simple Dockerfile specifies that we want to use Python version 3.11 and sets our working directory to “/app.”

2. docker-compose.yaml: Next, create another file named “docker-compose.yaml” and paste in the following content:

version: "3"
services:
  my-environment:
    build: .
    volumes:
      - .:/app

This configuration file defines our Docker services, including how our Python environment should be built and how our code should be mapped into the container.

As we progress, we’ll dive deeper into the structure and significance of Dockerfile and docker-compose files, gradually enhancing your understanding of their functionality and purpose.

Building Your Python Container

Now that you have your Docker environment set up, it’s time to build your Python container. You can do this in a couple of ways:

If you’re comfortable with the command line, navigate to your “lesson1” folder and run the following command: docker-compose build. Ensure that Docker is up and running on your computer.
Alternatively, if you’re using Visual Studio Code (VS Code), press Ctrl + ~ to open the integrated terminal, then select the “terminal” tab at the bottom of your screen. From there, run the docker-compose build command. This approach may be more convenient for many users.

Once the build process is complete, your Python environment will be ready for action. You’ve just taken a significant step towards becoming a proficient programmer. Now, let’s move on to the exciting world of programming concepts and code examples in our next article.

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Preparing for Programming: A Common Platform Approach

Peter Smith — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 17:47:00 +0000

Introduction:

In the second instalment of our programming series, we delve into the essential steps required before diving into the world of coding. Introducing programming to a diverse audience can be challenging, primarily due to the varying operating systems and versions individuals use. To ensure a consistent starting point for all our readers, we will recommend tools and methods that are widely accessible across different operating systems and versions, thus creating a common platform. In this article, we will focus on setting up the necessary tools and environment, including the popular programming language Python, a code editor, and Docker for containerization.

Choosing the Right Programming Language:

Python stands out as one of the most popular programming languages today, making it an excellent choice for beginners. However, it’s crucial to recognize that there are multiple releases of Python, each with its own features and compatibility requirements. Furthermore, the installation process and usage of Python can differ significantly between various operating systems. We’ll address these intricacies shortly.

Selecting a Code Editor:

While you can write code using any text editor, ensuring that readers see the same code as presented in our articles and images is essential for consistency. To achieve this, we recommend using Visual Studio Code (VS Code), a versatile and widely-used code editor. To make it even easier for our readers to replicate our setup, we’ll provide instructions on configuring VS Code to mirror our settings.

Setting Up Visual Studio Code:

Download and install VS Code for your operating system from https://code.visualstudio.com/download.
Launch VS Code.
Use the shortcut Command-Shift-P (on Mac) or Ctrl-Shift-P (Windows or Linux) to open the command palette.
In the search bar, start typing “Shell” until you see the command “Install Code Command in Path.” This command allows you to launch VS Code by typing ‘code’ in your command line or shell.

Configuring VS Code for Consistency:

Download the provided file (see below) and remember its location.
In VS Code, go to the File menu and select Share > Import Profile.
Choose the downloaded file. This action will set up your VS Code with the same settings and extensions as our setup (once the extensions are fully installed).

vscode-python-profileDownload

Embracing Docker for Python:

In our pursuit of creating a common platform for all readers, we introduce Docker, a powerful tool for managing containers. Containers are lightweight, standalone environments that contain all the necessary tools and files to run specific applications. In our case, we’ll use Docker to facilitate Python development, ensuring compatibility across various operating systems.

Understanding Docker:

Docker is a container management tool that simplifies the process of creating, deploying, and running containers. Containers, in essence, are streamlined versions of Linux operating systems, containing only the essential components required to run an application, such as Python.

Setting Up Docker:

Visit https://docs.docker.com/get-docker/ and download Docker Desktop for your operating system.
Install Docker Desktop.
Start Docker Desktop (this may take a moment).
Test your Docker installation by running the command docker run hello-world in your command line or shell. You’ll see progress indicators as the “image” is downloaded. If successful, you’ll receive a confirmation message.

Conclusion:

Congratulations! With Visual Studio Code configured and Docker set up, we are now prepared to embark on our programming journey. In the next installment, we will dive into writing code and explore the fundamentals of programming, including sequence, selection, and repetition. Stay tuned for an exciting and educational coding adventure!

Please feel free to reach out to me on twitter if you need assistance with anything in this article!

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Demystifying Computer Programming: An Introduction for Beginners

Peter Smith — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 17:05:00 +0000

Welcome to the inaugural edition of our series dedicated to the fascinating world of computer programming. In this journey, we’ll take a friendly and accessible approach to unravel the secrets of coding, algorithms, and software development. Today, let’s kick things off by tackling a fundamental question: What is computer programming, really?

If we consult the ever-reliable Wikipedia, it defines computer programming as “the process of performing specific computations (or, in simpler terms, achieving certain computing goals) by crafting and constructing functional computer programs. This process encompasses various tasks such as problem analysis, algorithm creation, assessing the precision and resource utilization of these algorithms, and finally, putting them into action (commonly known as coding) within a specific programming language.” Now, that may seem intimidating, even for seasoned software developers like myself.

However, I’d like to share a different viewpoint, one that I hold close as a programmer. At its core, programming is all about solving problems. These problems can be vast and intricate or relatively modest in scope, but they all have one thing in common – they’re waiting for a solution. Just like any other type of problem-solving, the initial step often involves understanding the problem itself. This may necessitate breaking it down into more manageable components, each with its unique set of challenges.

A common misconception is that programming is all about math and logic. While there’s some truth to this idea, it’s not always the central focus, especially if your programming tasks don’t involve complex mathematical or scientific calculations. In reality, everyday programming often revolves around the concept of transformation.

Consider this: We take data from different sources and reshape it to meet our specific needs. We gather user input to create something as straightforward as a movie ticket. We convert calendar events into smartphone notifications. All of these tasks involve transformation and are at the core of what programmers do.

One of the myths that discourage people from exploring programming as a career is the belief that it demands advanced mathematical skills. However, from my experience, this notion doesn’t hold true for everyone. In a previous role, I worked at an institution focused on cultivating IT professionals. While I don’t have concrete statistics from that period, I distinctly remember an intriguing trend: Individuals with a strong musical background often excelled in programming.

Music, when you break it down, indeed has mathematical foundations. But we don’t typically perceive it that way, nor do we approach it purely as a mathematical endeavor. Not everyone who’s adept at mathematics is inherently musical, and vice versa. Personally, I have a decent grasp of math, but my musical talents are quite limited.

It’s crucial to recognize that a career in programming, like any other profession, isn’t for everyone. Each field has its unique demands and challenges. Nevertheless, programming is more accessible than you might think, and it’s open to a broader audience, including you.

In this series, our goal is to collaboratively create a small application that serves as a practical tool for understanding various programming concepts. Together, we’ll venture into this captivating realm, and I hope you’ll discover enjoyment in the process.

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Unleashing Potential: The Vital Necessity for Web Presence

Peter Smith — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 12:05:02 +0000

Introduction

In today’s digitally-driven landscape, the question of whether your company needs a website is met with a resounding “Yes.” But why is this virtual presence so crucial? Let’s delve deeper into the myriad reasons that underscore the significance of having a dedicated online platform for your business.

Instilling Trust and Credibility

Your company’s website is more than just a digital storefront; it’s a symbol of trust. It provides you with a digital home—a place to direct people, a virtual extension of your business card. When someone inquires about your enterprise, having a website to refer them to not only adds a professional touch but also instills confidence. Imagine yourself in an elevator, engaging in a brief conversation about your business. Providing a short, memorable website URL can leave a lasting impression and offer interested parties a place to delve deeper into your offerings at their convenience.

Control Over Messaging

While social media platforms have their merits, relying solely on them can be limiting. A dedicated website grants you control over your messaging.

Unlike social media, where content visibility is subject to algorithms, your website is your digital sanctuary. You can create and showcase articles, promotions, and information tailored to your audience without the unpredictability of third-party platforms. Furthermore, you have the autonomy to decide how long content remains accessible and when to resurface it, allowing you to maintain relevance over time.

Crafting Brand Identity

Your website becomes the canvas upon which you paint your brand’s identity. It’s here that you define what your business stands for, emphasize your ethics, and showcase your unique culture. By curating content and design, you can effectively communicate your brand’s values and mission. This level of control is paramount in an era where customers and clients increasingly turn to online research before engaging with a business. Your website offers them not just information but also an insight into your company’s ethos.

Empowering the Digital Consumer

In an age where information is at everyone’s fingertips, your website equips potential customers and clients with the tools they need. They can access comprehensive information, browse your offerings, and gain insights into your company’s history and values. Your website is not merely a digital presence; it’s a resource hub that empowers the digitally-savvy consumer.

Conclusion

In summary, a company website is far more than an optional accessory in today’s business landscape. It’s a trust-building tool, a communication fortress, a brand identity canvas, and an indispensable resource for your audience. Embrace the digital age and provide your customers and clients with the online presence they seek—a platform that reflects your company’s values and invites them to engage and explore.

Remember, a well-crafted website is an investment that yields credibility, control, and connection in the vast digital realm.

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Making Calls on a Budget: What Is VOIP?

Peter Smith — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 12:05:38 +0000

In my article discussing expenses, I previously mentioned the utilization of VOIP, which stands for Voice Over Internet Protocol. But what exactly does this acronym entail?

We’ve all encountered instances where audio is transmitted over the internet, whether it be through platforms like YouTube or Spotify. While these examples may not be considered VOIP, they highlight the concept that sound can indeed be conveyed via the internet. So, why not extend this capability to telephone calls?

VOIP technology accomplishes precisely that. It enables individuals, like ourselves, to send and receive calls using traditional phone numbers at a significantly reduced cost.

Some years ago, Vonage, which harnessed VOIP technology, was heavily marketed, and you could buy their handsets in local stores. In today’s landscape, one of the more prevalent options is Ooma. These services, among others, provide you with the necessary equipment and the means to obtain a phone number for making calls.

However, there are even more economical alternatives. Some services offer phone numbers, SMS, MMS, and e911 service, allowing you to choose your own devices. The drawback with these services is that they tend to be a bit more intricate to set up, and you’ll need your own “device.”

It’s worth noting that a “device” need not be a physical phone; it can encompass various options. For example, you can explore SIP phones available on platforms like Amazon. Alternatively, you can employ “Softphones” or applications on your PC, Mac, or mobile device that connect to your service. These apps, with varying features, facilitate making and receiving calls and text messages.

While the feature set of such services may be somewhat limited, it typically suffices for the majority of users. Personally, I opted for a service named VOIP.ms (referral link), a Canadian-based company situated in Montreal, and selected a local phone number from their website.

Setting up this service involves several steps, followed by additional configuration for your chosen device. With a bit of patience, most individuals can get it up and running successfully. Additionally, VOIP.ms offers a comprehensive wiki that covers various aspects of their service.

I won’t attempt to provide a step-by-step guide here, as there are numerous articles available on the internet that can offer more in-depth guidance, and the aforementioned Wiki is an excellent resource.

However, if you ever require assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m always here to help.

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Counting the Costs: Small Business Start Up Expenses

Peter Smith — Thu, 07 Sep 2023 12:05:29 +0000

Last time, I chatted about diving into the unknowns of launching a small business. This time around, I’m sharing my own story, a couple of things that worked in my favor, and a financial aspect I forgot to mention earlier about doing business in Canada.

The Name Game

But first things first—why “Daptl”? What’s the deal with that name?
Honestly? Nothing in particular. When operating a sole proprietorship, there is no requirement to have a name. You can just operate under your personal name. In fact, in Nova Scotia at least, if you are operating in such a manner, there is not even a requirement to register as a business.

Source: Atlantic Canada Business Grants

But I had my own plans and thought a separate name would be nice to have. Something to separate my personal life and finances from my professional, as much as possible under the legal structure of sole proprietorships. Here’s what I wanted from a name:

Short and memorable
Easy to say
Not already taken as a .com

So, like anyone else, I Googled “business name generator,” tried a few, and got “Daptl.” It ticked all the boxes and I kinda liked it.

The Last (For Now) Financial Factor

One thing I totally forgot to mention earlier, and you should definitely discuss with an accountant, is the Canadian tax scene, specifically, whether you need an HST number or not. The rules of if you need to register, and when, are defined at the Canada Revenue Agency. But again, this is accountant territory from the get-go.

My Secret Weapons

So, having been a tech enthusiast for ages, I have some advantages when it came to servers, apps, and websites. I wanted a site, but I already have what’s called a VPS (Virtual Private Server) with SSD Nodes, several in fact. As an aside, that’s a referral link and I get a little something if you sign up with them through it.

On these, I’m running Docker, hosting a handful of small sites, as well as my email server.

The advantage? I didn’t have to pay for web hosting or emails. I can handle that myself. But that does mean I’m diving into the nuts and bolts more. For now, though, these are the geeky bits that I enjoy.

Show Me the Money

Alright, cost time! Of course totals depend on the choices you make.

Locking in a Name

Because I was aiming for a name distinct from my personal one, the first step was to conduct a name search through the registry of joint stocks. This helped determine its availability and ensured it wasn’t too similar to an existing business. It’s worth mentioning that, unlike corporations, a sole proprietorship in Nova Scotia can’t have a generic name. It needs to be related to the type of business you intend to operate—no conglomerates for sole proprietorships! In the end, “Daptl Software Consulting” became the official moniker for my venture. The cost for this name search, including taxes, amounted to $61.05.

Getting It on Paper

Once they give you the thumbs up on the name, it’s yours for 90 days. If you go ahead and register it, the initial registration, as well as yearly renewals will cost you about $68.55.

Putting a Face to It

For an online presence, I chose WordPress (free to install yourself), but I needed a logo too—for social media, business cards, etc. While I strongly support the idea of promoting local talent, I had to consider financial limitations. Quality logos and web designs often come at a significant cost, which I recognize as a worthwhile investment, but initial finances are limited. I opted for a pragmatic route by setting a budget on Fiverr. There, I connected with a designer who skillfully created a logo that aligned with my vision. This culminated in an expenditure of $27.17 for the final logo design.

Website

Continuing on: the next step was tackling website design. Although Fiverr provided several possibilities, their price points surpassed what I felt at ease investing in an endeavour that may ultimately come to nothing. This prompted me to explore ThemeForest following a Google search. There, I came across a WordPress theme that caught my eye and offered room for personalization. Full disclosure, I possess some coding skills, which enabled me to fine-tune the theme according to my preferences. The chosen theme came at a cost of $100.40, converted from USD via PayPal.

Leaving a Mark

Business Cards

Old school or not, I wanted business cards, logo and all. I decided upon Vista Print and got myself 100 basic cards for $43.92.

Claiming Your Spot

Having a website is all well and good, but it’s like having a house with no address. So, I purchased daptl.com for two years at $76.41, including domain name protection. Basically, that protection keeps my personal info from being out there for all to see, thanks to something called WHOIS. Think of domain registration like renting a mailbox—your website’s home address.

Ringing In

The final addition to my checklist was securing a dedicated phone number. I opted for a VOIP (Voice over IP) service offered by Voip.ms. It’s incredibly budget-friendly—initially setting me back $20, along with $3 HST in USD ($32.61 Canadian), on a prepaid basis, and this is likely to sustain me for approximately six months or longer.

So, summing up, that’s the financial snapshot of how I kickstarted this venture. The hopeful notion is that I can potentially write these expenses off as legitimate business expenses. Nevertheless, it’s an aspect that requires thorough scrutiny from an accountant.

Two More Things

Before we wrap things up, I’ve got a couple of points that slipped my mind:

Firstly, if you’re running a small business from your home, you might be eligible to claim certain expenses. This also applies if you’re working from home in general. Now, I must admit, I haven’t been on top of that myself (oops), so I’m not an expert in this area. But, of course, that’s where the accountants come into play.

Secondly, I’ve taken a shot at managing my own bookkeeping. It’s been a while since I’ve done this. To handle it, I’ve turned to a free tool called Wave. They make money of course, it’s not ad supported, rather they have premium add-ons like advisers and payroll. Alternatively, you could consider using QuickBooks. I don’t have any affiliation with, or endorse, either, just sharing what I’m using and know of.

Bottom Line

I hope this has given you some useful insights. When you tally it all up, I’ve spent $410.11 up to this point. I know, it’s not pocket change. Crossing our fingers that this investment turns out to be worth it in the end!

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