Section 1.1: Why Choose Google Sites?

Google Sites is both straightforward and unique. You can set up a new site in just 10 to 20 minutes. Upon creating a new site, it automatically saves in your Google Drive. You can collaborate with others, allowing real-time editing with friends or team members. This feature facilitates a shared workspace where you can observe changes as they happen.

You have the flexibility to either publish your site publicly or restrict access to select individuals, like friends or vendors. One of the standout features of Google Sites is its simplicity; you don't need any coding or design expertise. The platform provides seamless integration with Google Workspace, enabling easy access to various materials like Drive folders and shared calendars.

Google Sites offers a variety of themes, layouts, and fonts designed for optimal efficiency. These options ensure that your website not only looks great but is also responsive across all devices, whether desktops, tablets, or smartphones.

How to Begin

To start, log in to your Google account and navigate to Google Sites.

Section 2.1: Creating a New Site

Once on the Google Sites homepage, look for the option to “start a new site” on the left. Below that, you’ll see options like Blank, Portfolio, Event, Help Center, and Project. You can explore more templates by clicking on the “template gallery” icon on the right side of the page. Make sure you are logged in to create your website.

I chose the "Portfolio" template, which leads you to select a theme for your site. A pop-up will prompt you to create and customize your own theme.

Section 2.2: Selecting a Theme

When you opt to create a theme, you will need to enter a title and upload a logo and banner image for your site.

Choose your color scheme, where you can select from preset options or customize your own colors.

Section 2.3: Choosing Fonts

After selecting your color scheme, you will be prompted to choose a font style. You can select up to two fonts: one for titles and headings and another for body text.

This video titled "Add Google Analytics to Google Sites" provides insights on integrating Google Analytics into your Google Sites.

Section 3.1: Previewing Your Site

Before publishing, make sure to preview your site. Google Sites allows you to view your website's appearance on different devices: phone, tablet, and large screen.

Section 3.2: Publishing Your Site

When you’re ready to publish, you’ll need to finalize the URL by adding a name. The URL must consist only of letters, numbers, and dashes. After publishing, you can continue to make edits; just remember to republish to reflect any changes.

To manage visibility, click on “Who can see my site” and decide whether to share it with specific people or your domain.

Section 3.3: Connecting to Google Analytics

After publishing, it's time to connect your site to Google Analytics, which will enable you to monitor traffic. Click the settings icon near the publish button, select “Analytics,” and follow the prompts to enter your Analytics property ID.

This connection may take up to 24 hours to begin displaying traffic data. Once set up, you can analyze where your visitors are coming from and how they interact with your site.