What is your DREAM hosting solution?

[klynam]

If you were to begin from scratch with your website, what would you absolutely require in order to choose a hosted website solution as opposed to developing your own website? (Yes I know, technically all websites are "hosted" somewhere...lol) And if you would never use a hosted solution, let us know why not.

Here are a few of my thoughts to get us going...


Flexible templates (flash or html) that I can customize for my own unique look
Customizable drag-n-drop components that I can add to my site (scheduling calendar, music players, blog, photo comments/favorites, etc.)
Multiple gallery formats and transition effects (Lytebox, photo stacks, scrollers, carousels, etc.)
Photo and video galleries
Private (password protected) galleries
Online proofing and ordering
Slideshow creation (w/ selectable transitsions, timing, music, etc.)
Upload my own music tracks
Complete web-based administration (no coding required)
Reputable backend lab for printing and fulfillment
Online ordering and payment processing (price sheets, coupons/vouchers, discount packages, special offers, etc.)
Affordable - complete solution under $50/mo, and reasonable commission for sales
SEO optimization
Analytics and tracking tools
Meta-data/geotag support for photos
Plenty of storage space (in the world of $100 terrabyte drives, 3-5gigs isn't too much to ask)


Please jump in and continue the list or pick a few items and expand with the nitty-gritty details of what you'd like...

[tracknut]

A few others...

- Ability to handle ordering of jpeg files such that they do not need to be built before purchase (if that makes sense)
- Correct handling of sales tax differences between states/countries
- One-time purchase option, self-hosted rather than on somebody else's server
- Variety of payment options: checks, credit cards, paypal, google, etc
- Ability to customize colors and styling via CSS
- Use my own domain name for the site
- Management tools to track orders, issue refunds, send customer emails, etc

[klynam]

Great points tracknut. This is exactly what I'm talking about in this and my other threads. What does the MARKET want in a solution?!?!?

[brecklundin]

how many thread ya gonna need to make your point? :p

[klynam]

this is the last one...:-)...as I said, now that I have my thoughts ironed out, I'd delete the others if I could...