Four Tips to Follow when Choosing a Web Site Designer!
Contract - a written, signed contract ensures that you and the designer both understand the work that will be done, how much it costs, when payment is due, and time frame. The contract should also address any additional fees that may be required for extra web pages, extra photos, and photo editing. Copyright to the web site should be assigned to you at completion of the work. Find out if the contract specifies a 'review' period, for any changes you find after the site goes 'live'.
References - check the designer's web site for a portfolio or ask for a list of recent sites; talk to at least two current customers - are they satisfied with the work? When looking at the sites, do the pages, pictures, and graphics load quickly?
Maintenance Agreement - once the site is completed, how will changes be made? Designers usually offer both an hourly rate and annual maintenance agreement. Understand the time frame that changes will be completed and what happens when changes are not completed as agreed upon.
Questions? - Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions. A good designer will take time to address any concerns you have and make you feel comfortable with the design and implementation process.
Joyce Cimbalista, owner of Sunny Day Sites LLC, a web design company for small businesses.
