What you should know before making your final decision.
We
realize that choosing a Web Design firm can be a very frustrating and
confusing experience. So many choices and so many different prices, and
in the end, will you have made the right decision?
Before you search any further, we encourage you to use these resources to your best advantage to assist your decision process.
You may have considered letting a friend, relative or staff employee create your company’s web site. Although, it may seem inexpensive, if you want to avoid regrets in the future, we encourage you to consider these factors in making a smart business decision:
Although, individuals who can provide these critical services are out there, they are really hard to find.
On the other hand, hiring a web development company with a proven track record and experience in all the areas of building successful web sites may be a better choice for your business.
But, which company is right for you?
Selecting a web design agency is not an easy task. With thousands of companies to choose from, it is vital to know what to look for in that potential partner. Our goal is to clear up your confusion and give you all the information you need prior to making your final decision.
Behind the scenes
Most likely, the salesperson is not the one developing your site. His/her primary role is to show you all the great things that their company can do for you. On the other hand, the account manager is responsible for delivering the project on time and on budget. Don’t be afraid to step behind the scenes and get to know who is doing the hands-on work.
Process, Timeline and Budget
After defining your needs, the company should provide you with a Project Plan and estimated budget based on their process. To avoid any surprises, request a clear written estimate, along with a corresponding timeline and scope of services. Most companies will charge by the hour leaving you open to paying much more than you expected. If you don't receive a clearly defined written quote, you could potentially be left with a half completed project and a drained budget.
Do your research.
Don't take someone’s word for it.
There is a big difference between “saying” and “doing”. Many firms claim to have worked on a variety of web sites often including high profile names, when in reality they have only worked on a small portion of it. To make sure you are getting the full story, don’t hesitate to call their featured companies especially with the high profile names. They will tell you exactly what their roles were and their service quality.
Also, don’t be intimidated by the technical jargon. Many companies have taken advantage of the non-coder. When asking questions, if you are not clear about what you are being told, ask for an explanation in simple terms. Once you are told, do your research and cross-reference the accuracy of the information you were provided with.