Well I don't envy your position; it's very
difficult to find a good website developer. Web development
is such a new field; there are really no consistent standards
in place. If you talk to five different web designers, you'll
get five completely different prices and service packages.
Who do you trust?
First of all, take a little bit of time to
do some homework. Look at the portfolios of your potential
web designers. Do you like they way their websites look?
(You can see my website portfolio HERE.
Note that although all of my websites are unique, I still
do have a definite design "style" so please make
sure you like it before you call me!)
Talk to them. Find out how their web development
process works. They should be able to explain the process
clearly. Do they try to talk over your head with a lot of
confusing "tech-speak" or can they speak to you
in plain English?
They should also be willing to create a detailed
proposal and cost quote for your project so you'll know
exactly what you're paying for.
Make sure they have been in business at least
a few years so you know you're working with a stable business.
Over half of my customers' original web developers went
out of business (people are always starting up web design
businesses but very few make it past the first several years).
Then they were stuck with a website that couldn't be updated
or no website at all. I've helped lots of people get out
of these messes but they would have saved some money, time
and headaches if they had just called me first.
I've been in business since 1998. I've passed
that pivotal "five year" mark long ago. I'll be
here for you when your website needs updating and your domain
name needs renewing.
Sure we're all too busy for homework these
days. But you're getting ready to start a (hopefully)
long term
business
relationship with your new website developer. Taking some
time now will SAVE you time in the long run. So do your
homework and end up happy like this guy-->