9 Questions to Ask a Website Designer

Let’s face it: we can’t all be experts at everything. Thankfully, in today’s small business environment, we don’t have to be.

Technology works for the small business owner. Today the small business owner sees online platforms for freelancers, fast communication with marketing firms and website designers, and the cost-efficiency of outsourcing. With all of this, a small business owner can choose to make the most of his or her time.

This is where outsourcing website design and maintenance comes in. But you want to make sure you are getting the best. Before you jump into creating your small business website with a freelancer or firm, here are some key questions to address.

#1: Can you provide me with a few websites you have designed in the past?

Taking the time to look at other sites that the web designer has created can save you a lot of hassle later. Do you like the look of one website in particular? Ask for yours to be modeled after that.

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#2: How much will you charge for creating my small business website?

 Is there a set fee or is it hourly? It may seem like a no-brainer, but it is crucial to make sure that you are both on the same page before jumping into a contract.

#3: Who will I be in contact with about my small business website?

Clear communication is important when creating your small business website. If you have edits, suggestions, or concerns, it is always best to have one person you can contact.

#4: Will I be able to edit the website myself? If not, how will edits work?

Some packages include access to the dashboard to make changes yourself. If you’d rather have a professional do it, other packages include a set amount of edits each month after the creation of the site.

#5: How long can I expect the creation of my website to take?

Set a clear timeline for the creation of the small business website, as well as a hard deadline for the designer or firm to abide by.

#6: Do you provide any other additional services?

Some companies (and even individual freelancers) provide additional web services like SEO, creating and publishing copy, monthly edits, etc. Find out which of these are available and which will fit your needs.

#7: How will you ensure that my small business website is SEO-friendly?

SEO is about more than just keywords. Even if you don’t know a lot about SEO, make sure that the company designing your website knows more than you do. 

#8: What kinds of changes and suggestions can I make for the website design?

 Before even starting the process, make sure you know how many times you can send a website back for edits and changes. It’s your small business website, so you should be allowed the freedom to hone in on what you want.

#9: What do you need from me to get started on my small business website?

A website requires more than the design. Any small business website needs copy, contact information, photos, and other media. Make sure you have all of this readily available for whoever you choose for your small business website design.

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