Part of the series Choosing the Web Designer of Your Dreams
Everybody wants to know, “How much is this gonna cost me?” This is a fair question, and one your web designer should be able to answer clearly and up front, once you provide the relevant info.Some questions your designer may ask you about your proposed site:
- What information will be included?
- What do you like/dislike about your current site?
- What functionality does the site require? Will you need a contact form? Options for payments to be accepted?
- Who will be using the site and for what purpose?
- Do you have a timeframe and buget set for the site?
- How often do you expect to update the site? Who will be doing it?
- Can you provide examples of other sites that you like the “look and feel” of for review?
Beware of a web designer who quotes you a quickie price without asking plenty of questions about your individual needs and goals—that suggests a one-size-fits-all approach. Every project is unique. Although most designers will have a starting or base price when figuring rates, your designer should be asking you specific questions about what sort of site and functionality you require before tossing out figures.
A too-low price is a classic indicator of an inexperienced web designer. You can expect to get lower rates from less experienced designers, which is appropriate and sometimes, a perfectly acceptable choice. But do be careful. If you need something more complex than a simple website consistent with the sites you find in your newbie designer’s portfolio, then opt for someone who is better qualified to meet your needs. If you have a bad site, it’s going to cost you one way or another. Either your credibility will suffer or your pocketbook will suffer (by missed sales or when you have to pay someone else to fix up your bargain basement web deal).
Bottom line: Expect to pay professional rates for professional services. And if your budget is limited, be up-front about your concerns with your designer, who should be able to help you find ways to limit the costs while still getting the professional website you need.
Part of the series Choosing the Web Designer of Your Dreams
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Posted on January 27, 2009 at 1:16 pm in: Web Advice
