When setting out to build a new website, selecting the right web designer is essential. From functionality and ease of maintenance to alignment with your business goals, many factors come into play. Here are twelve key questions to ask your prospective web designer to ensure they’re the perfect fit for your project.
Which Tools Do You Use for Web Design and how are you addressing accessibility?
Understanding the tools a designer uses can provide insights into their workflow and capabilities. Ask about software for graphic design (like Adobe Photoshop or Figma), as well as the platforms they prefer for building websites. Are they comfortable with content management systems such as WordPress, Joomla, or Drupal and hwo do these tools affect the accessibility of the site they will build for you.
Can You Explain DNS Entries and Their Importance?
DNS (Domain Name System) entries are, in simple terms, directing traffic to your site. Ensure your designer understands DNS settings, how to manage them, and can explain their importance in layman’s terms. This will be essential when setting up your domain to point correctly to your server.
What Server-Side Solutions Do You Implement?
Knowing which server-side solutions your designer uses can help assess reliability and performance. Ask about their familiarity with different hosting environments (shared, VPS, dedicated) and server-side languages like PHP in the case of most open source solution like WordPress, Drupal and Magento. Don’t hesitate to inquire about their experience with server optimization for faster load times and better security.
What Is Their Skill Set in Terms of Coding?
A proficient web designer should have a solid grounding in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and potentially other languages like PHP and in the case of Shopify, Liquid. Ask them about their coding experiences and specific projects that demonstrate their proficiency. This will assure you of their technical capability to build a robust website.
Do They Use Any Page Builders?
Page builders like Elementor, Divi, or Beaver Builder can simplify the process of designing pages without delving deep into code. Ask your designer which, if any, page builders they use and the sustainability of said page builders and why they prefer them. Understanding their preference can also indicate how easily you’ll be able to make changes on your own.
Do They Incorporate AI in Site Generation, Text Generation, or Image Generation?
AI is becoming increasingly utilised in web design for tasks like site generation, text creation, and image enhancement. Find out if your designer uses any AI tools to streamline these processes. This could result in a more efficient and innovative project outcome.
Who Will Maintain the Website Post-Launch?
Maintenance often involves updates, backups, and security checks. Clarify who will handle these tasks once the website is live. Will it be the designer, an in-house team, or a third-party service? Make sure there’s a clear plan to prevent any downtime or security issues.
What Does the Maintenance Package Include?
A comprehensive maintenance package often includes regular updates, backups, security monitoring, and limited adjustments to the site’s content or structure. Ask for detailed information about what’s included in their maintenance plans. This will help you understand the value and scope of services you’re investing in.
How Much Experience Do They Have in SEO?
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is utilized for your site’s visibility. Your designer should have a foundational understanding of SEO best practices, including keyword research, meta tags, alt text for images, and responsive design. Inquire about past projects where they’ve implemented successful SEO strategies.
Can They Provide References or a Portfolio of Previous Work?
Seeing previous projects can offer valuable insights into a designer’s style and capabilities. Ask for specific examples of sites similar to what you envision for your project. Talking to past clients can also reveal their experience with post-launch support and overall satisfaction.
Will They Connect Social Media Accounts to the Website?
Social media integration is a must for driving engagement and traffic. Ask if your designer will handle connecting your social media accounts to your website or if this is something you will need to arrange separately. A seamless integration can enhance user experience and streamline your digital strategy.
How Do They Handle Email Setup and Management?
Email is an essential component of any business communication strategy. Ask your designer whether email services are included in their package or if you need to sign up for a separate service. Clarify whether they provide assistance with setting up professional email addresses associated with your domain.
And finally, get to know them, as they will be your partner for the life of the website.
Make sure they are responsive to your requirements and make sure you understand, a website costs money, time and effort. Mostly of your designer. Respect them for what they do and frankly, leave them to it. Once you have made your decision to go with a particular Web Designer or Developer – trust your instincts and trust them to do a great job and to look after you and your website for a long time to come.