Choosing a new web designer is a big decision that requires careful thought. Jumping into it too quickly can lead to disappointing results. It’s crucial to create a clear brief, laying out who you are, what you offer, and who you’re targeting. Most importantly, as the client, you need to know what success looks like for you.
In life, it’s always good to ask questions. During the web design process, the number of questions you ask can show how transparent and helpful a potential designer is. A designer who takes the time to answer all your questions thoroughly shows they genuinely care about your needs. They’ll go the extra mile to explain the ins and outs of web design, making sure you feel confident about the process. While you don’t have to ask every question on the list, focusing on the ones that matter most to your business can give you valuable insights and spark new ideas.
Consider going over this checklist with your potential web designer to see if they’re the right fit for your project. Remember, open communication builds understanding and sets the stage for a successful partnership.
Experience
Have you worked on projects in my industry before? Can I see examples of your previous work within a similar price range to mine? Would you be able to provide references and contact details of past clients for direct communication?
Process
Can you outline the framework or process we’ll follow in building the website? Who will be responsible for creating the website content? Do you have suggestions for a copywriter skilled in crafting effective copy? What’s the estimated timeline for completing my website? Is image sourcing and purchasing included in your proposal, or is it an extra cost? Will you provide a final packaged copy of the website for future reference? When can you start work?
Design
Do you have an in-house graphic designer who specialises in user interface design and conversion optimisation? How many rounds of design revisions are included in your process?
Tools
What content management system (CMS) will you use to build my website? Will you use templates, or will the layout be custom-designed? Where and by whom will my website be hosted (if you provide hosting services)? Do you offer email hosting, and will you help with email account setup? How do you ensure website backups are up-to-date for rollback purposes?
Are WordPress and associated plugins kept updated and secure as part of the hosting fee? Will you set up Google Analytics and assist with goal tracking? Can I expect regular Google Analytics reports emailed to me for website traffic monitoring? How will you optimise my site for search engines? Who handles onsite search engine optimisation? Will you implement 301 redirects to capture old traffic from existing search engine listings or URLs when the site launches?
Do you test the site across different devices, platforms, and browsers? Can you integrate social media widgets into the site? Will my site be mobile-friendly and visually appealing on various devices? Will you ensure compatibility with retina display screens?
Will you conduct load time testing to ensure the site loads in under three seconds? Can payments be collected through PayPal or credit cards on my site? Will you install an SSL certificate for secure payments processing?
Money
Do you offer a money-back guarantee? What are the payment milestones, and are there any unexpected expenses to anticipate? Can you provide an estimate of the total project cost? Who owns the website upon final payment? How do we handle any changes or scope creep during the project?
Ongoing Support
What’s your typical response time to email inquiries? Will you provide training on managing the new site? Do you offer training materials for future reference? Will you be available for site modifications after launch, and how are ongoing updates billed?
Summary
Choosing the right web designer is crucial and can impact both your finances and time. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate your options and ensure you’re comfortable with your choice. Trust your instincts and prioritise a company with a strong portfolio. Remember, quality often comes with a price, so be prepared to invest accordingly. Crafting a clear brief and asking relevant questions will lay the groundwork for a successful partnership. Investing in thorough briefing upfront will enhance accountability and project progress.
