Ten Questions to Ask a Web Designer Before You Sign Anything

<p>Before you hand over any money for a website, a short conversation will tell you almost everything about whether a web designer is right for you. Here are the ten questions worth asking, and why each one matters.</p> <h2>1. Can I see live websites you have built?</h2> <p>Real, visitable sites, not just pretty pictures. Then go and use them on your phone.</p> <h2>2. Will I own the website?</h2> <p>Some builders keep you locked in. Make sure the site is yours.</p> <h2>3. What is included, and what costs extra?</h2> <p>Get the full picture. Design, content, hosting, support. Know what is in the price.</p> <h2>4. Who will I actually be dealing with?</h2> <p>The person doing the work, or a salesperson you never hear from again?</p> <h2>5. Will it work properly on a phone?</h2> <p>Most of your visitors are on mobile. This should be a given, but ask.</p> <h2>6. What about getting found on Google?</h2> <p>A beautiful site nobody can find is no use. Ask how they handle local SEO.</p> <h2>7. What happens when I need a change?</h2> <p>How quickly, and at what cost? Get it in writing.</p> <h2>8. How long will it take?</h2> <p>A clear timeline shows they have a real process.</p> <h2>9. What do you need from me?</h2> <p>A good designer is clear about what they need and when, so the project does not stall.</p> <h2>10. What if I am not happy?</h2> <p>How do revisions work? A confident answer here tells you a lot.</p> <p>If a designer answers these clearly and without dodging, that is a very good sign. We are always happy to sit down and go through every one of them before you commit to anything.</p>