5 Things to Consider When Selecting a Web Design Agency
Web designing is the production and maintenance of websites, including creative graphic design, interface and user-experience design, authoring and search engine optimisation (SEO). Websites are the first and crucial medium of communication between a business and its customers. The never-ending quest of finding the right web design agency can be a little challenging and businesses need to consider several factors before investing and getting involved with a web design agency:
Check the Agency's track record and portfolio
This process requires an in-depth pre-analysis of the company. Its strengths and weaknesses, the opportunities it offers and how it’s different from its competitors. Go through a detailed list of websites they have designed but beware of falling for homepage screenshots. Look out for customer references and testimonials on their site, then assess if the design is user-friendly and the style is what you are looking for. If you see anything you don’t like, move on.
Second, look at their objectives. A company’s objectives give a comprehensive picture of where they stand. Inquire about its history and look out for faults and frauds. Preferably choose a steady, long running agency that guarantees longevity so they don’t disappear into thin air out of the blue. Look for an agency that has work experience in more than one industry to ensure better and more creative ideas that will likely appeal to a larger target market.
What are their core services?
Different web design agencies have different specialisations while some are all-rounders. Ask them if they can provide overall design, development and marketing services that are in line with the current market trends. Their experience with bespoke web projects that necessitate intricate problem solving skills and excellent coding standards will ensure a solid result. Their ability to design consistent branding and marketing material will also help with your overall presence. Also it might be an idea to inquire about their SEO expertise and a genuine track record of increasing search engine traffic.
The Cost
Knowing your budget might be the deciding factor for your choice of web design agency. However, you should know an appealing website requires some investment, where you can’t afford to cut corners since your image depends a great deal on an effective website. Do your research, find out the most reasonable rates but be prepared to invest sufficiently.
Dynamism
Consider if the agency is dynamic enough to keep up with the latest technology and current market trends. Keeping a balance between what’s modern and what’s proven is integral, while adapting to new styles and elements from time to time.
Designing with CMS in Mind
Content management systems (Drupal, WordPress, and Joomla) help you update the website frequently, without which you would have to ring the developer every day, requesting an update. If the web design agency recommends a static HTML website, say no without further thought, this won't allow you to grow in the future.
Hopefully these points will give you an slight insight into things to consider when selecting your next web design agency. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below.