Let’s say that you’re a business owner and just decided that you need a new website. Ok, this shouldn’t be difficult in 2019. However, after spending some time on Google and getting in touch with a few web development companies that keep asking some hard-to-understand questions, you eventually figure out that it can be a pretty tough job.
Considering this, we’ve decided to put together a shortlist with tips to help you find a proper web development company, able to deliver that website you always wanted!
Figure out what kind of website you need
We know, this can sound a bit like a given, but the truth is that not websites are similar. For example, Google is a website as well, but with a ridiculously big infrastructure behind. The same thing goes for the likes of Facebook or Amazon.
Therefore, it’s very important to observe the differences in what makes up a site, as well as its functionality. Or, if you prefer, what’s going to offer for your business and the people interested in it.
Our recommendation is to determine exactly what are you looking forward to using your website for and communicate this to the web development company. If they will understand instantly and come up with some recommendations, you might as well have found a winner.
Are you compatible with them?
When picking a new company in charge with your website’s development, you’re actually starting a new relationship which should last for a few years, at least. And this is something incredibly important, as we’re talking about one of your main technology partners!
Like in any potential relationship, get to know who you will be hiring, find out their values, their way of working, as well as, of course, how the staff gets along. Because, in the end, one of the factors influencing your final decision will also be…well, if you like them as people.
Don’t forget about support
As mentioned above, a web development company is one of your business’ technical partners, which means that, at some point, you will need them to offer you support. Specifically, some changes to your website, after you figure out that some features or elements are missing or not functioning properly.
The web development company you should be working with will provide all the tools you need to update your website whenever needed, but also solve your requests on time. This is why we believe that it’s essential to find out at what level, the turnaround time, as well as how many members of the staff will be in charge of offering support.
Consider all costs
Last but not least, the financial aspect is surely essential when choosing a web development company to work with. Yes, we are talking about an investment in your company’s future, as the website is your online business card, but this doesn’t mean that you should just pick the first offer.
Most development companies set their pricing using an hourly rate or using tiered packages. But besides these, there are also additional costs to consider, like hosting or on-going support. If the latter isn’t included in the initial offer, of course.
A difficult choice, right?
For the past years, the team at IB Systems have been helping local companies in Tampa Bay – but not only – extend their online presence, through website redesign and development. Whether you are after a custom solution, based on Flash, DHTML, Ajax, XLM, JavaScript and PHP, or a WordPress website, they can deliver just what your business needs!