Web Design: How to Find an Experienced Web Design Company
For businesses looking to establish a presence on the Web, one of the most challenging steps in the process of building a website is actually the very first step — finding an experienced, reputable Web design and development firm that can help the company meet and possibly exceed its needs. There are many companies out there that might say all the right things and talk the talk, but it’s important that, as a business, you know how to identify those firms who can also walk the walk. Here are a few tips to help you accomplish this task.
Seek out referrals from past clients.
One of the best ways to pick up good leads on quality Web development companies is to ask around and speak with companies who’ve recently had websites built. If the experience with the company had with the design firm was good, you can add them to your list of companies to speak with later.
Check out the companies and their work.
Once you have a list of design companies that you want to check out, get down to business. Check out the company’s portfolio of past work. Are there any sites similar to what you’re after and, if so, did the company do a nice job with the design work? If you find a few companies you feel are good matches for the type of design and development work you need done, make note of their contact information and proceed.
Get in touch and study the company’s response time.
Want to get a good sense of how responsive a company is? See how long it takes them to return an email or a phone call. If they don’t respond quickly enough for your liking while they have a chance to win your business, they probably won’t be as responsive when they’ve already cashed your check. That’s a sign to keep looking. If the company gets back to you in a reasonable amount of time, this is the stage where you’ll want to spell out your needs and ask for a comprehensive Web design proposal. Get proposals from two or three companies, and then move forward.
Review the proposals and make a selection.
View the proposals you’ve received and select the Web design company that best matches up with the type of looking you’re going for at the price you’re most comfortable with. Contact that company and get started on the Web design and development process of your brand new website.
This advice should help you get through the first exploratory phase of selecting a firm that will do a great job developing a website for your business.
