How to choose a web design company

Your online presence is more important than ever, so if your website is looking outdated it may be time for a website redesign. If you don't already have a web design agency you're happy with, how do you choose the right firm to help you update your site?

Start with some research. Do online searches to find web design companies in your area and ask professional peers for references. Start making a list of websites you like, whether they're in your industry or not, and find out who created each of your favorite sites.

Once you have a short list of possible web design agencies, take the following steps to ensure you choose the right partner for your project.

1. Research the company. The Web design & development agency you choose to build your site will truly hold the future of your company in its hands, so it is important to choose a company that is well-established, experienced, and reliable, with an excellent reputation and visibility on the web. with expertise. Design and related skills such as web development, SEO, and digital marketing. Visit the website for each potential web design agency to see how long they've been in business, what services they provide, and what level of experience and specific skills their team members offer. Also, check the website for customer testimonials or case studies, and read reviews on third-party sites such as Google, Facebook, the Better Business Bureau, the Yellow Pages, and Trustpilot.

2. Check out potential agencies' own websites. Many web design firms will have a portfolio section on their website so you can easily see some examples of their work. Have developed websites that are professional looking and easy to use? Do their featured clients seem comparable to yours in terms of size? Do the sites look similar in scope? Does the site have the functionality you will need for your site?

3. Check out some of the websites they have created. Many web design firms will have a portfolio section on their website so you can easily see some examples of their work. Review these samples with the following questions in mind: Are the websites they developed professional-looking and easy to use? Does their website look elaborate in terms of design style, or do the sites look like they were built from a template? Do their featured clients seem comparable to yours in terms of size and scope? Does the site have the functionality you will need for your site? Do you have examples of websites in your industry?

4. Make a list of essentials for your website. Having a list of non-negotiables before you start talking to agencies will make the vetting process much easier, prevent you from forgetting any priorities during the sales process, and help you quickly narrow down your list of prospects. Those who check every box will help. . In addition to the basic requirements (ie, WordPress experience, responsive design, ability to integrate with third-party systems, specific functionality like online payment or registration, etc.), create a second wish list for things that aren't deal breakers. . But it might make you lean towards another agency (like logo design, secure hosting, content creation, ongoing digital marketing, experience with print design, etc.).

5. Know your timeline and budget. Having a firm idea of how much you can afford to pay for a new website and when it should be completed is essential to finding the right web design partner. On the financial side, establish a cost limit rather than a number, and be sure to ask what is included in the project estimate and how much/how much you will be charged for fees and services that are not included. Your timeline is another important consideration. If you have a tight deadline for a site launch, such as before a major industry event, product launch, or sales cycle, be sure to communicate that deadline to agency candidates and ask them for an honest assessment of whether they're finalists. can meet the date, any challenges they anticipate with your timeline, and what they will do if they are running behind.

6. Make an initial call and set up a meeting to talk about your project. Notice how they handle this initial call—are they approachable and friendly? Do they ask questions about your company and project details, or do they immediately launch into a hard sell? This is a company you should evaluate as a long-term agency partner, so chemistry is key. While the person who answers the phone may not be the person you sign on with as a customer the most (or at all) once, that person still represents the overall personality of the company, so make sure that It feels like a good fit.

Finding a web design partner that's right for your business and your brand takes some work, but the more due diligence you do before signing a contract, the more likely you'll be happy with the agency relationship, web design process. will be , and the website they provide when the project is complete.