4 steps to choosing a web design firm
When launching a new web design project, there are four main steps to picking the right design firm:
1. Look at the firm’s portfolio and client list.
The web design firm’s portfolio should show a range of styles and websites, each well-designed, professional, and attractive. The portfolio should show that the firm has experience working with clients your size or in your industry, and that they can successfully design sites with specific target audiences and marketing objectives in mind. And, make sure the agency’s own website is professional-looking and shows that the firm has the creativity and expertise you need.
2. Make sure the firm has the expertise you need.
The design firm you choose should have experience in creating websites from start to finish, so make sure they can provide all the services you need, from design and copywriting to production and maintenance. Find out which team members will be working on your web design project so you can make sure they have enough experience to ensure that your website gets built the right way from the start.The firm should have a history of successfully creating websites similar to the one you have in mind.
3. Check references.
The agency contacts should be responsive right from the start of your relationship. If they don’t respond quickly to phone calls and requests before your project has even started, they might not be good at meeting your project deadlines. Ask for client references and contact them, and ask for client testimonials if you don’t see them on the agency’s website. Check out the principals on LinkedIn or by searching online to see if they have any online recommendations or reviews. And, meet face to face, if possible, to see if your organizations are a good fit.
4. Agree on a price.
Get project estimates from a few design firms—the ones to which you have talked to and feel there’s a good fit—making sure that the services covered and the pricing structure (per hour, fixed price, per page, etc.) on each estimate are the same. The estimate should spell out the goals, deliverables, and schedule for your website. Don’t select a firm simply because it offers the lowest price. A low price might be a sign that an agency emphasizes quantity over quality or outsources your work to less-skilled workers. Or, a low-bid firm may hit you with additional charges once the project begins. In the long run, it’s usually worth the extra budget to have an experienced, professional team work on your site.
There are thousands of web design firms that you can choose from, so make sure the one you select is the best fit for your company. Keep these four main steps and you should find the right creative firm for your website.