A few things to consider when
getting a website
Things to Think About Before Hiring a Web Design or Developer
A few things to consider before getting started.
1) Ask yourself why you want or need a website. Sounds pretty straight forward - but have you really thought about how your website fits into your businesses over all marketing plan.
Maybe you want one because everyone else has one? Perhaps you're looking for new ways to keep in touch with clients/customers?
2) Take a moment to check out other web sites (don't forget competitor sites). If your market is in the Regina local see what the competition is doing.
If you work in real estate check out other realtor sites. Bookmark these sites and make a quick note off what you like and dislike about them. A few words on each is fine ie, "not enough detail", "great lay out and colour!", "too wordy", "kind of plain", "awesome" etc.
3) Think about what you want your website to do. Perhaps you are looking for employees and you want to accept resumes online? Maybe you are contractor and want a photo gallery to show off your latest work?
Ask yourself "wouldn't it be nice if..." and add these to a wish list.
4) Check out potential web designers and ask them questions. Call around. How long have they been involved in web design? Can they show you web design samples? Do they offer support or training afterwards? What is their education and experience in website design and development? Are they located locally? Do they provide written quotes on their work?
5) Before hiring a webdesigner be clear on what the web designer/developer is expected to deliver.
Before committing ask for a clear outline of the process.
- How long would the design process take?
- Will I be able to approve drafts before the site is made and if I don't like what I see will I be charged extra for you to get it right?
- Are edits and content changes, so it is just right, included or will I be charged extra?
- How much for webhosting and the domain name itself?
- Will you help me with Search Engine Optimization and if so how much?
When we sit down with a client we always like to be very clear on the process, so there are no suprises.
Taking a little time to prepare does make all the difference and remember there are no "dumb questions".
