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Website Design - Questions & Answers
Why do I need a website for my business? There are many reasons to have a website
for your business.
- A website has become a standard method of
advertising.
- Most people expect a business to have a website.
- It gives your business a professional edge.
- It's cheaper than most other types of advertising.
- It can be changed easily and often.
- Without a website you leave the door open to your
competitors who does have one.
- Potential customers can access your website 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Why should I hire a professional web designer?
With the readily available do-it-yourself HTML software, it is relatively simple for anyone to create a functional website. We all know someone who has designed a quick and easy website using this type of software. This would also explain why there are so many badly designed websites. Just because someone has a paint brush - it doesn't make them an artist. If your website does not look professional - the first impression of a visitor will not be a positive one. If their first impression is not a positive one, they will not take your business seriously and will likely take their business to one of your competitors.
How do I choose a web designer?
The best way to acquaint yourself with a web designer is to spend time at their website. As you look over the work of the web designer, ask yourself "Is the design appealing and professional? Do all the features of the site work properly? Does the site load quickly? Are the graphics and photos on the site in color and in focus? Can you view the web designer's portfolio? Do you like what you see?" It's not just about the price - it's also about originality and professionalism. If you don't like what you see on the web designer's own website - the website designer probably won't be able to do much better for you.
Do I need to hire a "local" designer?
Our company is based in Michigan and we specialize in creating websites for businesses, organizations and individuals in Southeastern Michigan. We have also worked with clients throughout the United States effectively through the use of email, fax and telephone.
I know nothing about having a website. Can you
help?
Of course! We will take the time to
explain all of your options, what is involved with a
website, the fees, the features, the marketing, etc.
We will do this in terms that you can understand.
How much does a website cost?
There are quite a few factors that will affect the final cost of your website design project. These factors include how many pages your site will consist of, the graphic work involved with the creation of your website, the features that are added to your
website, whether you will be selling products directly online to your customers and how interactive your
website will be. We offer
affordable website design packages
that range in size, price and features.
You will also want to consider a
domain name and
website hosting for your website.
Are there any hidden charges for your website design
services?
No. After your initial free consultation
you will give you an itemized quote for the services you
require and that quote will stand firm unless you decide to
add additional features to your website.
Will I be able to see the design of my website while
it's under development?
Yes, once the design of
your main page is completed it will be uploaded to our
server for your approval. After you approve the design
of the main page the rest of the website will be completed.
Will I have control over what my website looks like?
Yes. Our goal is to create your website to your
specifications. However, that doesn't mean we won't
give you our expert advise and make suggestions that we
believe will make your website more professional and
successful.
Can I make changes to the website design or text once
it has been started?
Yes, the main page will be
uploaded for your approval. If you want to make any
changes with the design or the text we can do it then.
Do you offer discounts?
Yes, we offer a 30% discount to nonprofit organizations.
I already have a website but I'm unhappy with the design.
Can you help?
We will be happy to review your current site and set up a free no-obligation consultation to discuss options that will give your site a fresh new look that's dynamic, interesting and effective. Contact us to set up a
FREE Consultation.
What is the biggest mistake people make when first starting out?
In our experience the one mistake we have seen most often is when people either spend too much money when they start out by paying for a lot of services or features they just don't need or they cut corners and spend almost nothing. Neither approach makes much sense. We will work with you to determine which options and features will work best for your needs, goals and budget.
How long does it take to have a website designed?
The time frame is usually determined by the size of a
website, the complexity of the site design and our current
client schedule. Normally, we can have a website up and
running in less than 10 days.
What is website maintenance?
At some point most
websites need updated for some reason or other. Some
companies add new content or updates to their site on a
regular basis. Other websites rarely need updating.
If you feel comfortable with HTML coding you can maintain
and update your site on your own. We offer
website maintenance options that make maintaining your site easy and convenient.
What are META tags?
META tags are an important part of your page which allows your web site to be found by search engines and directories when someone performs a search. Every web page should have three META tags in the header of your web site: the Title, the Description and relevant Keywords. We include relevant META tags on every page of every website we design.
What kind of information should I put on my site?
That depends on the type of business you have and the purpose of your website. For a company website, you will want to include as much information about your products or services that your customers would need to purchase from you or hire you. We will work with you to determine what content and pages should be included on your website.
What information is needed by me?
You will need to provide the information about your business and the products or services you offer. No one knows better than you what to say about your own business. You will also need to provide your company logo and any photos or graphics that will be included on your site. If you don't have a company logo we can create one for you. If you don't have any photos
or graphics but would like to use them on your site we have access to an extensive library of photos and graphics that can be used on your site. If you are located in Southeast Michigan we can even come directly to your place of business and take digital photos of your facility, your products and/or your employees which can be added to your site. We also offer a complete range of custom graphic design services.
How should the information and graphics be submitted to you?
There are a couple of different ways to provide us with the text and graphics needed for your website. You can provide actual photos and graphics which we will scan and place on your site or you can provide photo and graphics on a floppy disc or CD. You can also email the photos and graphics directly to us. Your text should ideally be sent via email, direct mail or copied on a floppy disc or CD using a basic word processor like NotePad or Microsoft Works. We will edit and spell check all text but the actual descriptive phrasing should be worked out by you.
What are your payment terms?
We require a
50% deposit to start your website design. The
remaining balance is due upon completion of the website.
How do I make payment to you?
We accept payment by Cash, Check, Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover.
I've Made my decision - I want you to design my website. What happens now?
Contact us today for a
FREE Consultation. We’ll go over
all of your options with you to determine which services
best meets your needs, goals and budget. If you are
located in Southeast Michigan - we can visit you at your
place of business or go over your options by phone or email.
If you are located outside of Southeast Michigan - we will
work with you by phone, email and fax. |
