[mpnetwork]

I think Harry and focusben both make good points.

The web site design, hosting, and DVD rental markets are very saturated. This is the same as many businesses being discussed on this forum (ie - music, clothing, movie rentals, lawn maintenance).

In some cases this is because setup costs are low, in others there are few skills required (to get into them, to be the best at any of these requires many skills and lots of experience), in others it is because many individuals treat it as a part-time or side project.

What Harry is saying is true.

In these situations it takes a unique product or tons of $$ invested in advertising in order to break through.

That doesnt mean you cannot get into the business, but to make a living from it will be tough.

Just because someone "thinks" that the web design industry is "saturated" isn't a reason to not do what you want to do. I hate when people say that because it's just as bad stealing their dreams!

Focusben also makes a good point, just because an industry is saturated doesnt mean you cannot be successful. There are plenty of people doing web hosting, lawn maintenance, etc. who are very happy with their choice. By the same token, there are plenty who quit soon after starting. Be aware of this when starting your business.

What Harry is saying about not diving into whatever you want to do is true. Because almost anyone can start a real estate / lawn care / tanning salon (etc.) business there are plenty of people who gotten in to it without the dedication, skills, or attitude to succeed. As a result, many clients get burned (no pun intented with the tanning salon example) and it makes the entire industry look bad.

If you are going to go into business, do it right. Make a business plan (very important, run a search here, there are plenty of posts), open a business bank account, get the proper licenses, etc. Don't rush into things, because you are setting yourself up for dissapointment. Take a step back, ask yourself what skills you need to really succeed, and then work on developing them (either through school or real world education) before starting your company.