How do you choose a reputable Web Design Company?

Once you've determined that Internet presence will benefit your business, you must decide how to handle the design and implementation of your website. Research shows that you have seven seconds to make a first impression and keep the user on your site. Are you going to "do it yourself"? You're busy with your business. How are you going to add the tasks of website design, creation, hosting, registration, maintenance, and promotion to your list of projects? Having a website is an ongoing process--you just don't (or shouldn't) plop it out there, then sit back and wait.

With that in mind, it is most likely that you would be better off letting experts tackle the additional work required to make your website successful. A tempting and often initially inexpensive option some hurried business owners take is having that second cousin once removed who's "good" with computers build the site. It is likely that this person will not be able to provide the care and maintenance the new website will require.

The right web design company can make online presence most useful for you and your services. The Internet is nothing more than an additional effective tool to promote your business. A competent web design company is the craftsmaster to help you utilize that tool to its fullest extent. It is essential to know that having a website should only be part of your company's marketing and advertising project. You will still want to pursue a combination of previously successful advertising and promotional means.
When seeking a web design company, research them. Be cautious of the "single webmaster" design company. This person may have more skills than your second cousin but do they have the ability to keep up with all the tools and technology of Internet design? A web design company has the full-service design and marketing capabilities of a number of people. Steer clear of Ad agencies as well. To effectively convey the look and feel of your site, you want to work closely and personally with the web design company. And no, knowing HTML Code is not enough.

In your search for a legitimate web design company, take a look at their website. If they don't have one, run away! Do you like the look of their site? Test navigation and functionality. Are there any error pages? Is the content current? See if you can tell whether they have a marketing or computer programming background. Companies that came up through technical backgrounds tend to be weak on visual appeal and effectiveness. It should be a simple matter to contact the web design company directly to ask any questions that may arise from checking out their site.

Do they have an online portfolio, testimonials or references that can be contacted? You want to see some of the work the web design company has already completed to get a feel for their ability. The best viewpoints come from people who have already worked with that company.

If you're going to have a web site, you will need web hosting as well. Is the web design company capable of doing this or at the very least helping you to find a hosting company that will fit your individual needs for bandwidth, e-mail accounts etc?

Do they have any awards or recognition? The Association of Webmasters and Designers awards for web excellence and a logo should be visible on approved companies' websites. See if the web design company has any local business affiliations or roots in a local community.

Find out if it is a PC or Macintosh based operation. It can be relevant to the construction process and compatibility of machines, files and materials. PC operations are usually geared toward office tasks and database management, while Mac systems tend to allow for greater design and user interface sense. Find out which platform will serve better for the mission of your site.

A variety of website design and development packages should be available, based upon your needs and goals. During the initial meeting with the web design company (and yes although it is the world wide web, a face to face meeting is a good idea), observe their location and office arrangement. Do they make you feel comfortable and assured of their abilities? Are they capable of answering your questions or willing to find answers for you? You have to get along with them, as you will be interacting for more meetings and maintenance.

Will the web design company provide timely maintenance once the site is constructed? Your site will require changes and updates. If it doesn't, you may wish to re-evaluate your business.
What is the web design company's marketing plan? They should work with you to determine the best marketing strategy available.

Is there additional support or services available from the web design company? How will they help you be found on the web once they put you there? Being there is important as we have discussed but who will know you are there if you don't promote your site. A good web design company will be knowledgeable in how to legitimately optimize your site for search engines.

Finally, getting a bargain is great, but the lowest price might not be the best deal. The web design company you choose should be keeping up with the fast changing new technology and sharing that education with you.

Don't be afraid to ask questions and choose carefully!

•  Article provided by The Women's Business Institute (WBI), Taneytown, Maryland and written by Bonnie Raindrop and Stacy Meyn