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What To Ask Your WebSite Designer

What to Ask and How to Hire a Website Designer

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Whether you're just starting your company or you've been in business for several years, it's likely that you'll eventually have to invest in the services of a web design company. This isn't a task for the faint of heart because while there are some outstanding agencies out there, but there are also some really bad ones. Finding the right one can put your company on the fast track to online success, but selecting the wrong one can leave you with nothing to show for your time, money and frustrations.

The key to selecting the right web design company for your particular situation is doing your homework. There is a lot more to it than just looking for the lowest cost. By following these steps, you'll have a far better chance of selecting a company that is the best fit for you.

1. Look at their website. This may sound like a no-brainer, but many people skip it. If a web design company doesn't have a website that really catches your attention and draws you in, chances are that they won't be able to design one for you. And don't believe the "cobblers children" excuse. Any professional web design company will take their own website very seriously.

2. Compare their prices. You're not necessarily looking for the lowest price though. If many of the firms that you talk to are in the $3,000 - $5,000 range, don't get excited when you find a firm that is offering to design your website for $700 - that lower price comes with strings attached. As in any industry, you get what you pay for. Value is more important than price; decide what you can afford to invest in your online presence and then select the firm that offers the most value at a realistic price. For a ballpark figure, an investment between $2,000 - $5,000 should meet the needs of most companies.

3. Research their history. Have they been in business for a few years? Have they been covered by any major business publications? How about testimonials? Every company will have some unhappy customers, but what you're looking for is a trend. If many high-profile people have good things to say about them, that is a strong indication that they are a reputable company. The same applies to positive coverage in the media.

4. Talk to their clients. Most reputable web design company will gladly provide the phone numbers of a few clients that you can call and ask about their experiences with the firm. You can also track down clients from their portfolio. If they won't let you speak to any previous clients, that should be a huge red flag.

5. Look at their process from beginning to end. Does it seem professional and structured or does it appear like they are putting it together as they go? Most serious web design agencies will have a very structured process in place, starting by discussing your particular needs and situation. Many will send you a creative brief, which is basically an in-depth questionnaire that collects the information they will need to plan and design your website. They should also have contracts prepared that outline the terms of your project. Usually, the more detailed and organized firms are the ones that will meet your needs most effectively.

6. Consider their size. If you run a Fortune 500 company, a two-man web design company may not be able to meet your needs. On the other hand, if you run a start-up company and have a small budget, a larger web design company may not be the best fit for you. The key is to select a firm that will be able to handle your project, but will still treat you as more than just a number.