Ten things to ask your web company before you hire them:
1 – Will my website work perfectly on all devices – including mobiles and tablets of all sizes and makes?
Over half of all web browsing is now done on mobile devices so it’s essential that your website looks beautiful and works perfectly on all of them. If they say it will, get it in writing before they start and make sure you test your site on as many devices as possible before paying the final bill.
2 – Will I own my website after it’s finished?
Some web companies use bespoke software that makes it hard to move your website away from them. Others will charge you if you want to move your website away from them. Make sure they’ll give you your website if you ask for it and get it in writing.
3 – How much will they charge for making changes in the future?
A reputable company will usually include a few minor changes during the first year the site is live.
4 – How long will it take to design the site and what happens if it takes longer?
Launching your website when you plan to is really important, especially if you’ve promoted a ‘go live’ date. Make sure they offer you some kind of guarantee that it will be ready when they say it will.
5 – How can I ensure I get traffic to my website?
Some web companies can’t support you in this very important aspect of having a website built. Make sure that they can and will help you with this. Ask them what they will do and get them to specify any additional costs involved. A decent web company will be able to help with Search Engine Optimisation, Social Media and other online marketing.
6 – Do you do competitive research too?
This question is important because your designer should be looking at what else is out there and what your competition is doing. It should inform the design process at every stage.
7 – Is the price quoted fixed?
You should be able to get a fixed cost for your website. Ask them what happens if you don’t like the first design they come up with to make sure they will create an alternative design.
8 – Will my domain name be registered in my name?
This is incredibly important! Make sure your domain name is registered in YOUR name, not the website design company’s name. Transferring ownership of domain names or hosting accounts at a later stage can be a pain.
9 – How can I make changes to the site in the future?
It’s important to keep your content up to date so make sure you understand the process for making future updates. Will you get a Content Management System (CMS) so you can make changes yourself or if they are going to make the changes? How much do they charge?
10 – Are their testimonials genuine and would they mind if you contacted any of their customers to ask what they think of you?
If their testimonials are genuine they shouldn’t mind you contacting their customers to ask them what they think of your services!
That’s it! Ten very important questions. Web companies come and go all the time so make sure you choose an established company with a good portfolio and genuine testimonials.