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Important Questions to Ask a Web Designer before Signing them On

Let's assume that you have a pretty good idea of what you want on your web site and able to write or provide your own website content. As you look for designers you will want to ask them many questions. Here are some of the ones that I consider important in your serach for a webmaster. my ere are 10 questions you need answered to help you create an effective web site without breaking the bank or delaying your plans.

1. How do you charge? By project or by the hour? Accepting an hourly rate agreement gives you more control over costs but can cost you more. Tweaking can become expensive so when hiring someone by the hour be sure to communicate and ask questions about how long changes will take. One optioon is to put in a spending cap. My recommendation is to do a flat rate followed by an hourly rate for changes to the initial design.

2. Maintenance costs. 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? Many companies will charge a slightly higher montly hosting fee in return for free basic maintenance.

3. 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". You should also ask about penalties if the site is not done on time. Some designers will drag a project out knowing they already have your money.

4. What are the payment requirements. Does the designer want all of the money up front? Half now, half upon completion? Make sure you hold back partial payment until your site is complete and you are fully satisfied with the results. Too many people have ben ripped off by un-professional designers.

5. 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. A marketing plan for you and the designer is an excellent way to get you going.

6. As about ongoing search engine optimization? This is usually an add-on service, so find out if your developer includes it with site development and what the ongoing charges are to continue to help your site grow.

7. Who owns the site. Make sure you do! Don't leave this critical component of your business and marketing strategy out of your ownership. If the designer is using any proprietary code which needs to be licenses find that out up front. Make sure that you are listed as the administrative contact on your domain names and that you receive copies of the code as backup.

8. Will your developer teach you how to read your web logs/stats so you can understand the how, what, where and why of your visitors? Are these logs included in the hosting package?

9. Has the developer designed other sites for your niche market? Do they have any other customers who have similar sites with which you can exchange links.

10. Do you feel that the designer is listenting to your needs and ideas? A web site is a major component of your marketing strategy and business success. Do your homework when 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. It should be a partnership.

11. How long has the designer been in business? Do they have a business background or are they a techie who doesn't understand the entire business package?

2008 © Art Sprague

Internet Marketing

About The Author

Art Sprague has 25 years in the technology field and has owned his own business for 8 years. He is a strong believer in listen to the client first and then make recommendations. He respects the knowledge that the business owner has and wants to help them build upon their own success.

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Written By: Art Sprague Art Sprague Consulting