Online gaming has been growing since its origin in Antigua and Barbuda in the year 1994; when online casinos were first offered licenses. Although Microgaming was the sole software developer at the time, the industry has come of age. Many developers exist today, and the various gaming websites have their developers and game providers. The popularity of this phenomenon has swelled as well with customers joining each day. These users subscribe to enjoy table, card and arcade slot games. An example is the Dolphin Treasure slot game offered online.
Factors to Consider
To kick-start this lucrative business, there are due processes to follow that lead to a successful gaming website. The following are the parameters an interested investor should put into considerations.
- Explore the Industry
A little of research before engaging in a venture does not hurt. Before breaking ground in starting an internet gambling website, you should first review the industry as a whole. Identify the major players, the pros and cons, and the basic requirements. Seek advice from experts as well. Through this manner, you will be well armed with a powerful tool; information. You will have begun on a good footing, and your trek to success will have few obstacles.
- Acquiring a License
Regardless of the region, you desire to establish your online casino; it is paramount to obtain a license to operate. Well-known regions offering legitimate licenses include:
- Malta
- United Kingdom
- Antigua and Barbuda
- Cyprus
Licenses give you the green light to conduct betting operations in that jurisdiction. On top of that, you will gain credibility among the masses.
- Website Design
As a host to online punters, your website should be standard at least, if not better. This is because it will be the primary platform for most operations. These including providing many games to users, holding data and passing information to clients. As such, the web design process should be conducted with these factors in mind:
- Visual Appeal
The first impression more often than not, determines whether a client chooses or overlooks a website. Artistic creativity should be incorporated on your homepage. This visual appeal will strike many customers who will be more interested in exploring the website further.
- User-friendliness
In as much as the website should be attractive, sophistication must be avoided. You are not targeting all-knowing programmers or fashion icons but normal gamblers are seeking to simply bet and win. Therefore, the interface should be simple to navigate and use. Command buttons are clearer when the font is big enough to see and vivid enough to read. Also, too many buttons can overcrowd the space hence moderation is the mantra.
- Security
Gamblers and internet users as a whole are really concerned about how secure the information they share on websites are. Their location, personal details, passwords, and banking information must be your priority. First, you must secure your website with end-to-end encryption. Obtaining the Secure Sockets Layer certificate (SSL) will raise your profile. The lock symbol on a user’s address bar in whichever browser gives him the confirmation that their vital information is private and confidential. Backing this up with secondary digital security certificates is an added advantage.
- Speed
Nothing nags more than a website that is infected with bugs and hangs from time to time. A gamer’s nightmare is forfeiting a bet midgame because of an error-strewn website. Strive to make your website to offer smooth sailing to all users.
- Customer Service
Ultimately, it is the one on one interaction with your subscribers that will determine whether you get to keep or lose them. Providing a telephone helpline, support email address and even a Live Chat feature that works 24/7 ensures customers’ needs are satisfied. Also, it is advisable to use real people (typically replying immediately) other than bots in engaging clients.
- Find a Reputable Software Provider
Having achieved all that, the gaming provider you select must be among the best. Tasked with providing and updating the online casino games, your software provider should also update and maintain the website. Some of the many software developers in the game include:
- NetEnt
- Microgaming
- Playtech
- Aristocrat
- Bally
- IGT
These and other notable companies should avail online casino games such as roulette, baccarat, slots, and poker among others. Of course, it all boils down to your preferences thus the ultimate choice lies with you.
- Establish Payment Methods
The desire by gamblers to play for real money and for your online casino to benefit as well requires you to set up a form of payment method. Cash flow involves the deposit of stakes and withdrawal of winnings. The good thing is that multiple payment methods can be employed putting regional currency and time factor into consideration. Players prefer faster transactions. These methods may be:
- Direct Bank Transfers
- Credit/Debit cards
- e-wallets
You may also accommodate the digital currencies such as Bitcoin to expand your customer base.
- Running Traffic for Marketing Purposes
Numbers are chiefly vital in this competitive market. You will have to use social media as a medium to run traffic to your homepage using banners and ads. Create attractive ads that lead new users to your website. Also, employ the services of bloggers and marketing affiliates to widen your reach. Among the items you can market, are bonuses, loyalty points, free games and popular casino games on your website. In no time, you will be generating the required clicks leading to sign-ins.
Conclusively, setting up a gaming website involves research, licensing, website design, finding good game developers and setting up a banking method. Marketing the product comes in the end.
