Severity Design has been creating smart looking websites for the small business community since 2009. We started in this industry because we saw the need for business owners to get educated about utilizing the web to reach out and market their product or service. When looking for a website designer to help launch your website, there are a few things to consider before you do so. Many people, just starting out, will look for a web designer from a friend or family member. This might save you a few bucks, but in the long run it will always be more beneficial for you to hire a professional. Here are a few things to think about when seeking the professional services of a website developer:

1. Look at their portfolio of work.
Always ask for samples of work. This will show you the experience level, the professional quality and the design style of the web design company. Do they mainly produce plumbing websites? Are they specialized in any particular industry? Do they consider smart imagery and design choices or do they just slap a few pictures together and call it a website? Stay away from a company that doesn’t have an online portfolio of real clients they can point to.

2. Do they have a reputation or part of an association?
Having a good reputation in the business community is key to understanding what to expect when working with a reputable design company. Being a participant in a local chamber of commerce or part of the Better Business Bureau communicates credibility and accountability to the small business community. People that are on their own, doing websites out of their basement that no one knows about should be considered suspect.

3. What is the process?
A good web designer will have a clear, step by step process and scope of work they will provide you with. Ideally, this would be proposed in writing so that everyone is on the same page with expectations, time lines and payment schedule. If the person you talk to doesn’t have anything for you in writing and just wants to take your money, you probably want to pass on working with them.

4. Are they reasonably priced?
Don’t let yourself be taken advantage of because you don’t understand technology. Don’t allow a web designer to use big language with you and up-sell you on technology and features you don’t really need or want. Unless you are needing an enterprise, full scale website solution for your business, you should realistically be paying between 800-3000 for your website. An honest website designer will let you know costs upfront and won’t nickle and dime you for your project.

Hopefully, this helps provide you with some ammunition to carry with you when you contact a website development service to create a website for you. If you have any questions or concerns, or would just like another set of eyes to look at your current website or idea, please don’t hesitate to contact Severity Design by email or phone. We provide a free consultation with no hassle.

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