There are a couple of things to consider when planning any project, including web design. Firstly, you will need to decide whom to work with, you will need to determine your clientele, get sufficient quotes and of course, after sale service.

Let’s look at some of these points in detail.

1. Choose People You Want To Work With

Saying you should work with people you like is a little corny, but let’s face it, you are going to spend some time with the team you choose to do your website. Moreover, you will have to share at least some of the big ideas you have for taking your business forward.

So, don’t spend that valuable time with people who talk too fast, who don’t understand you… or that you just plain old ‘don’t like’.

Choose people who share your objectives for your new website, it should take about 15min. to figure this out at the beginning of the meeting. You’ve got to feel something good here, folks.

2. Call the Referrals

OK. You like the people sitting across the table from you and you want to see their work. So, ask for the names of a few clients the design company has worked with recently and give them a call.

You can always see their websites on-line, of course, but what you want is to find out if the vibe you felt about working with this website team is real. The referrals can tell give you the scoop.

Let’s say you call 4 referrals and spend 5 min. each with those people. This is a 20 min. investment, max, in the capital you are about to spend. So, don’t scrimp on this time.

3. Compare Apples to Apples

When you are comparing the quotes you get, make sure the web design companies are offering you the same products and services.

First of all, we need to be clear. Get your quote in writing…. seriously. It will become your reference document and the foundation for the working relationship you have with your design team as you move forward.

When you get that document, read it and compare it carefully with the others you have received. Beware, the $500 site you just got offered, might be a little short on something the others are providing.

4. Where’s My “After-Care”

Sometimes the guy who did your $500 site is hard to reach after you gave him your dough, or his Mom answers the phone and tells you he “went out west” a couple of days ago.

Maybe you bought a very sensible Honda site but your new website mechanic claims he only has access to Mercedes parts to fix your new ride.

Make sure you get the lowdown on how the relationship will evolve after the website design is done and settled on.

How are updates done? How much will it cost? Can I do some changes myself?

Good questions to ask the team you are considering doing the work for you and of the clients of theirs that you call. Make sure your “after-care” agreement is ongoing and won’t break your bank account.