Important Questions To As Your
Web Designer
Assuming you already have a fairly good idea of what you want on your web site here are some questions you should ask when picking a web developer.
1. Pricing: Accepting an hourly rate agreement gives you more control over the project cost while a fixed price will open negotiation for bells you decide you want later. My recommendation is to negotiate a flat rate for a list of features followed by an hourly rate for bells and whistles.
2. Maintenance Cost: Once the site is complete who will maintain it? If the developer offers this service, what are the costs and turn-around time? If you'd rather assume modification control, do they offer access to and training on editing software? If you are dead set to do your own maintenance make sure that the developer knows this and allows for that in the coding style.
3. What are the web developers recommendations for advertising once the site is done.What is the expected completion date for the site? You want to be in a position to plan ahead for the launch. Having this information will allow you to organize your marketing efforts and prioritize all other plans that tie in to "going live".
4. Payment requirements: Don't get pulled into an agreement where a large amount is requested up front. Most developers will want some up front and then additional payments during the project.
5. Who is responsible for Search Engine submission?. Will your designer submit your site to the search engines or will this be your responsibility? If this is your responsibility, do your homework to ensure you cover all the steps.
6. What will search engine optimization cost? This is usually an add-on service, so find out if your developer includes it with site development, offers it at an additional cost, or if you will have to contract it out to a third party.
7. Ownership. Make sure that you own the code and domain names.
8. Make sure that time is allowed for you to understand web statistics and logs.
9. Is your site a niche market? Has the developer designed other sites for your niche market?
10. Get references. Has the web designer provided a portfolio, testimonials or references from others in your niche market? Have you verified the references?
11. What are the follow-up services? Once your website is completed you will need to manage it to make sure that the search engines rank it. This management process involves changing the content and working with other websites to establish link exchanges. Link exchanges are an important way to develop higher search engine rankings.
A web site is a major component of your marketing strategy and business success. Do your due diligence in selecting a web developer and don't hesitate to ask as many questions as it takes to fully understand both your and your developer's role in the process.
Created by Art Sprague of Art Sprague Consulting. Web Site development and business promotion services. |
