The ISP market is changing quickly, with new providers appearing and companies consolidating fairly often. It's important to evaluate your options carefully and consider your long-term needs.

An ISP provides Internet access and may be a public agency, such as New York State's Office of General Services, or a private company, like Net Heaven, America Online, or many other local or national companies. ISPs offer a variety of services, from simple dial-up Internet connections to full Web site development. These are common ISP services:

Internet connection. The ISP provides a network connection to the Internet. Issues such as speed and availability of the connection are important considerations. They affect the time users must spend to access and use your site.

Web site hosting. An ISP provides server space and network connections which you can rent to house your site and enable it to be accessed by your citizens. In this arrangement, your government would keep the design, content, and maintenance responsibilities of your site in-house.

Web page development. Many ISPs provide Web site development services. These may range from simply converting documents into HTML to designing your overall site. Some ISPs can create content, implement your site, and conduct marketing activities.

Web servers and other services. An ISP may be able to provide services such as a Web server, e-mail, and discussion groups. Customized applications, like database access and search engines, are often unavailable through ISPs and require in-house hosting of the service.