This post was originally published on March 14th, 2019. Updated for September 8th, 2020.
Your website is the face of your business in this digital age. It can make or break a client’s experience. Even though web design may seem like a different language, you don’t need to be an expert to get the most out of your site. Working with an experienced web designer will help you reach your goals. When working with a web designer, ask these essential questions.
1. Do you have a portfolio?
Any serious web designer will provide their portfolio, so you may not even have to ask this question. If they seem hesitant or don’t have a portfolio, it is definitely a warning sign. Their portfolio will show you what you can expect from them in the outcome of your own website. While their portfolio will (usually) only show you the style of websites they have designed, it’s also a good idea to ask how their sites have performed. Your designer should answer these questions with clearly documented and easy-to-understand information.
2. Do you offer content marketing packages?
Content marketing, much more than web design, generates leads. It also increases ROI and converts visitors. If those are your goals, then you definitely need to bring content marketing into the conversation. Ask if they include a content marketing package as part of their services. If you already have a content marketing strategy, show them what you are currently doing. This will help the web designer work your strategy into your new web design for greater success.
3. Are your website designs mobile friendly?
You don’t want to pay for a new website just for it to be awkward or unusable on mobile devices. Don’t assume that your designer will automatically make the design mobile-friendly. Ask whether they will create a responsive design that accommodates all visitors. Also, find out how much experience they have in creating mobile-friendly designs and test drive a few they have done.
4. How will we communicate during the design process?
The last thing you want is to work with an unresponsive or unreachable web designer. Solidify upfront your meeting schedules and how you will contact each other. Will you meet in person once a week and get an update on the project, or will you communicate as needed by email? Nailing down this vital part of your web design process is crucial. The most important thing about web design (or redesign) is achieving your business goals. Miscommunication and frustration are not conducive to a good website design experience.
5. Will you integrate social media into my web design?
Social media is a big part of your success. Your website should integrate social media. Make your web designer aware of all your social media platforms and your goals. If your designer won’t integrate your social media, you should be able to easily find someone else who will.
6. Do you perform SEO services?
Website design is much more than how your website looks. Your site needs to be designed with SEO in mind. It’s important to have a designer that knows what it takes to make a site with great SEO. Of course, the content on your page has a lot to do with SEO as well, but the structure is important. SEO is not something to add in at the end of your web design process, it’s something that’s included from the beginning.
7. How much input will I have with my website design?
A good designer will have their own set of questions that they ask you to get a feel for your business goals. They should ask what type of aesthetic you are looking for and what designs you definitely don’t like. If they aren’t asking you these questions, it is a red flag. But, you should also do your due diligence to find out how much input you will have with your website design.
8. Can you create a logo for my website?
If you don’t already have a logo, ask your designer if they will create one for you. Your logo will be used on printed materials, uniforms, vehicles, etc. so it needs to be versatile. Ask to see other logos they have created so you can get an idea of what they will produce for you. Consider how well their logos match the business and establish brand identity. Find out whether the logo will be an additional fee or if they will include it in your web design cost.
Making the Process Smooth
Asking your web designer these eight questions will ensure your website design process is as smooth as can be! In need of a new website? We at Technology Aloha want you to get the best out of your site so you can focus on creating a greater impact on your community. Contact us today to learn more!
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