If you’re searching for a web design company to create a website for your business, know that web design involves more than aesthetics. You’re choosing a business partner who will create a website that looks great, is functional, and is user-friendly for your visitors. Finding a company that can deliver on both fronts – appearance and functionality – is vital to making a lasting impression on your visitors.
When selecting a design firm for your business’s website, think of it as hiring an architect. You want someone with specific experience, materials, and tools to create a successful finished product.
Here are some fundamental questions to ask candidates before hiring.
When working with a web designer, asking them about their process is necessary. A documented process or using project management software are strong indicators that your designer can take the lead and handle the project efficiently. Because each client has different needs for their project, we tailor our process to your specific needs. Our strategy is discussed during our initial meeting to ensure we begin your project accurately. Afterwards, we outline each project’s process details on the quote.
Creating a successful website requires an in-depth analysis of your business and the industry. Research helps the designer strategize, design, and market your business effectively. Working with a designer who understands your ideal client and has experience in your industry is essential for the best outcome. Our first step for all our projects is research because it helps us to identify the purpose and required functionalities to determine the proper steps to assert your business’ presence.
Some designers offer completely custom-coded websites, while others use CMS platforms and customize from existing themes or templates. While it’s rare to code a website from scratch, it’s essential to know the level of customization your designer can provide. Companies use CMS platforms as a starting point for web design and development. We use WordPress because it’s cost-effective for our clients, automatically responsive, and has endless possibilities to have your website designed and functioning to your specific needs.
Implementing proper search engine optimization (SEO) from the beginning of your site development is crucial. SEO strategies include fresh content, strategic page titles and meta descriptions, appropriate URL structure, image optimization, alt tagging, mobile-friendliness, keyword research, and on-page SEO. It’s essential to ask if they include SEO from the project’s onset to ensure your website has the necessary framework to rank higher on Google. We understand the importance of SEO strategies for websites, stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices and share our knowledge with our clients.
Ensuring that your website is accessible to all visitors is vital. Inquire about their accessibility process and their compliance with your target audience locations.
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Optimizing your website for accessibility ensures a seamless user experience for everyone. We have clients across Canada and the U.S., and we keep up to date and follow compliance everywhere.
If you plan on making updates and changes to your website, you want to ensure that your web designer uses a user-friendly platform and offers training. This way, you can maintain your site easily on your own. If you prefer not to do it yourself, ask about post-launch support/maintenance packages that provide long-term support. Once we launch your website, we offer a complimentary, up to 2 hours, website training session to help you learn how to self-manage and update your website (record provided). Additionally, we can provide 1:1 training, group workshops, and custom video tutorials as needed or requested (at additional cost).
When choosing a web design company, remember that aesthetics are just one part of the equation. Look for a business that can create a functional, user-friendly website. Don't be afraid to ask questions about their process, research, customization options, SEO implementation, accessibility efforts, and post-launch support to make an informed decision. By selecting the right company, you'll have a website that leaves a lasting impression on your visitors and supports your business's success online.
We provide comprehensive web design services that go beyond aesthetics, ensuring your website is visually appealing, fully functional, and user-friendly for your visitors. We have the right tools to deliver a successful and impressive website.
Don’t be shy, call us at (705) 919-1271, email us at hello@charettedesignstudio.com, or fill out the form below and we’ll contact you to discuss your specific situation.