Ask HN: How to come up with a domain name if all options are already taken?

1 points by llomlup 9 years ago | 4 comments

I have an internet business idea, but all domains I tried are either taken or cost premium. Does it make sense to go with a random name and then compensate the lack of a good name with heavy SEO/promotion? It's kind of depressing not being able to move past this point.

dx034 9 years ago |

As long as a domain name is easy enough to be remembered (so that you can visit it without clicking a link), the name doesn't really matter. The origin of businesses' names are a nice anecdote, but they hardly decide over success (unless the name is offensive in other languages). Google is an example where the name is very easy to remember whereas the connection of the name and the search business is not very intuitive to most.

So choose a word that people can remember and know how to write, but it doesn't have to be connected to the nature of your business.

uptown 9 years ago |

For most businesses, the name won't be the determining factor of success or failure. I'd focus on the product, and understanding the needs of your customers, and worry about the name later. If your idea has legs, there should be ample opportunity to secure a name prior to when the vast majority of your customers hear about you. Also - happy to help you screen domain name ideas if you'd like another set of eyes. Contact info in my profile.

fuzzfactor 9 years ago |

You have reached the end of the internet. There are no further links. What you are searching for can not be found, or may no longer exist.

tyingq 9 years ago |

Are you willing to share the niche/product? Perhaps others might be able to come up with name ideas you've missed.

I'm skeptical that all good names are taken and/or expensive. After all, the name doesn't have to be descriptive or a dictionary word, it could just be something that rings out as a brand name.