So, you’re thinking about a website…?

I’m a web designer and a good one (so I’m told). I’ve been building sites for a long time and I have an excellent reputation for integrity, quality and service. Here’s my list of the minimum considerations or investigations you should take into account when looking at a website so you don’t end up…well, you know…

1. BACKGROUND CHECK PART I
How much web design experience does the company or individual have? Is experience in your industry essential? If so, do they have an expert on board? Sometimes have a little industry “insider knowledge” can help with developing ideas for your site. If they’re new to the market, it doesn’t mean they’re a bad company to do business with, but you may have to make allowances. A newer company may be able to give you a price break because they’re building their portfolio.

2. BACKGROUND CHECK PART II
Can they provide references and a portfolio? So many people fail to ask this and it’s so important! Check both the portfolio and speak to the clients. How was their overall experience? Were there any surprises (good or bad)? Was the final cost the same as initially discussed? If not, why? Were all their expectations met? Would they refer the designer to someone they trust?

3. WHAT’S THE PROCESS?
How does the design / development and implementation process work? What deliverables can you expect and when? Will you be involved with the design? Does the designer give you three designs to choose from? Will there be deliverable dates and who will be required to do what to meet them?

4 “HIDDEN EXTRAS”
What will you get for your money? For example Will the design company submit your site to search engines? Do they provide any SEO (Search Engine Optimization)? Will they upload your site for you? Will they help you buy a domain and set up hosting? Is that included in the price? Will your site be marketed? If so, what can you expect as part of the package and what is extra? Will you be expected to provide artwork, graphics, music or photography? Some of these items can be very expensive.

5. IS THIS A CUSTOM JOB?
Does the designer use templates or is their work custom? Template sites tend to be cheaper, but they’re more generic. Are you comfortable with that? Are you expecting a custom site but getting a template?

6. WHO OWNS WHAT?
Who will own what at the end of the project? Some companies retain ownership of all software they develop and only license you to use it. If this is the case, find out what ongoing license fees may be. At the end of the project will there be anything that requires you to maintain a relationship with the developer? There is nothing worse than finding you can’t take your site elsewhere or make changes to it without permission.

7. THE FINE PRINT
In addition to a written proposal, ask for a copy of their design contract. Be sure it stipulates who will own the rights to the work and anything that may be use as part of it (photos for example). Will you own it outright or will the designer be able to make copies and resell them? Ensure that there is an agreement for dispute resolution. You’ll hopefully never have to use it, but it helps.

8. WHAT HAPPENS AFTERWARDS?
Does the designer offer support / maintenance programs and how much are they? Do they designer offer any warranty? There might be errors, typos or other corrections needed after the site goes live. Are these covered as part of the project or is it a separate expense?

9. ARE YOU COMFORTABLE?
Does the designer / project manager / sales person make you uncomfortable? Are they too “pushy”? Do you feel as though working with him/her could be problematic? If yes, then seriously consider your decision to move forward. Your gut feeling is usually the right one. This is probably the most important item on this list. You have to be able to work with this person / company.

10. DON’T RUSH IT
Sleep on it. Sometimes you were expecting to spend x and the quote you get is x times 10. A good developer will work with you and your budget to find a solution that is affordable and yet workable. Don’t write a check on the spot. Don’t fall for any “today only”…in fact, if that is even offered, walk, because no self-respecting web designer will use a tactic like that. Also worth mentioning here is that it’s unusual, in my experience, to be asked to pay 100% up front.

Some designers will offer to do a “mock-up” or “proof of concept” for you before you pay them anything. This is unusual so don’t expect it. However, once you have paid your deposit, then you have every right to…

Additional Resources

JDE

wikiHow – How to Find a Good Web Designer

Web Pages That Suck

Bad Design Features (Robin Williams

10 Tips For Avoiding Web Design Fraud (Christina Keffer)

Foursquare Innovations – Find a Web Designer

Dave

twitter.com/jdeltd

Dave Segrove provides small business web design and marketing services to a wide variety of companies. He has worked and traveled extensively in Europe, the US and Asia and loves nothing more than to help entrepreneurs and small business owners realize their potential.