Choosing the right website design firm to create or revamp your company’s online presence is one of the most important investments you’ll make as a business owner. Your website is often the first impression potential customers will have of your brand, so you need it to accurately reflect your products, services, and values. But with so many options to choose from, how do you find the best web design agency to turn your vision into reality?
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when researching and evaluating website design firms to uncover the perfect partner for your project and budget. Follow our tips to set your company up for online success.
Know What You’re Looking For in a Website Design Firm
Before starting your search, clearly define the goals for your new or redesigned website so you can communicate your needs and compare providers apples-to-apples. Ask yourself:
- What is the purpose of your website – ecommerce sales, lead generation, informational, etc?
- What are your target key performance indicators (KPIs) – traffic, conversions, rank, etc?
- What is your timeline and budget for the project?
- What features and functionality are essential – responsive design, SEO optimization, custom programming, etc?
- What is your brand persona and desired website look and feel?
Having a request for proposal (RFP) ready with this criteria will help potential agencies understand the scope of your project and if they have the capabilities to fulfill your vision.
Research Website Design Firms in Your Area
Once you know what you want in a web design partner, start researching local providers that specialize in sites for businesses like yours. Here are some places to look:
- Online Directories – Yelp, Google Maps, Manta
- Referrals – Ask business associates for recommendations
- Industry Associations – Look for member lists
- Web Searches – Search “website design firm [your city]”
As you research, pay attention to reviews, ratings, case studies, and the providers’ own websites. Also note if they have experience in your specific industry.
Narrow Down Your Top Choices
After some initial research, you should have a list of a few potential website design firms worth a deeper look. Dig into the following to determine the best fit:
Portfolio
Review examples of past work that is similar in purpose, industry, or other criteria important to your project. Look for sites they’ve designed that have a comparable look and functionality to what you want to achieve.
Services
Make sure the agency provides all the offerings required for your scope of work like:
- Website design and development
- Content writing
- eCommerce functionality
- SEO optimization
- Website hosting
See if they also offer additional services like logos, branding, marketing, and more for future needs.
Process
Understand each firm’s specific approach to creating sites, typical timelines, innovation practices, project management style, and how much you are involved at each step. Look for processes that align with your needs and clearly outline deliverables.
Team
Learn about who specifically would be assigned to your project and their background. Be sure they have experience building sites like the one you need for clients in your industry. Also ask if they outsource any work to third parties.
Pricing
Get an estimate for your project scope to compare costs. Remember the saying “cheapest is rarely the best” applies here. Focus on quality over bargain pricing. Also understand what is included, payment schedules, and any retainers.
Reviews
Go beyond the number of stars and read through actual customer reviews. Look for feedback related to working relationship, delivery, site performance, and overall satisfaction. Avoid firms with consistent negative feedback.
Case Studies
Read detailed case studies about projects similar to yours to gauge results. Look for stats on ROI, conversions, rank improvements, engagement, and other KPIs relevant to your goals.
Vet Down to Top 2 or 3 Contenders
Once you’ve evaluated your prospects, narrow down to 2 or 3 website design firms that seem to best match your project needs. Then conduct more in-depth due diligence by:
- Scheduling sales calls to ask additional questions
- Exploring their resources – blogs, videos, guides
- Checking certifications and association memberships
- Requesting and verifying references from past clients
This deeper dive will help you fully validate the capabilities, experience, and credibility of each to make a confident final hiring decision.
Follow a Structured Hiring Process
When you’re ready to move forward, follow these steps to hire your new website design partner:
1. Define the Project Scope
Collaborate to detail out all aspects of the project – goals, deliverables, timelines, costs – to set clear mutual expectations.
2. Request a Proposal
Have the agency draft a formal proposal document outlining the agreed upon project scope for your review.
3. Sign a Contract
If the proposal checks out, sign a professional services agreement clearly defining legal terms, IP rights, and more to protect both parties.
4. Pay Retainer (if required)
Some firms require an upfront payment to kickoff work for a defined period which is credited on your invoices.
5. Collaboration & Review Cycles
With agreements signed, the design process begins! Provide assets and feedback through outlined review cycles.
6. Launch Your New Site!
Do final testing and acceptance to launch your polished new or redesigned website!
7. Pay Remainder of Project Costs
Make payments on any outstanding balances per your contract terms. Retainers are applied as credit.
8. Ongoing Optimization & Maintenance
Most agencies provide continued website optimization, updates, hosting, and support after launch.
Following a clearly defined process ensures you, the client, and the website design firm start off the engagement aligned and set up for success.
Tips for Being a Great Website Design Client
To keep your website project running smoothly, be sure to:
- Have realistic expectations – Understand websites take significant time and expertise to do well. Achieving your vision will take collaboration and patience.
- Provide everything they need – Deliver brand assets, copy, photos, and anything else requested to prevent delays.
- Meet deadlines – Review deliverables and provide feedback by expected timelines to keep the pace.
- Communicate clearly – Response to emails and calls promptly and concisely explain any requests or issues.
- Trust their expertise – They are the professionals. Respect their recommendations even if you have personal preferences.
- Pay on time – Honor payment terms and schedules outlined in your contract. Design firms have expenses too!
Being a responsive and understanding client will help ensure an enjoyable process and great end product.
Finding the Right Strategic Partner
Selecting the right website design firm for your business is a big endeavor, but worth the effort. With a structured hiring process, clear vision, and open communication, you’ll forge a valuable partnership resulting in an exceptional website that meets your unique needs and goals.
So take your time, do your homework, and don’t automatically go with the cheapest option. A little extra investment will pay dividends by setting your company up for online success and growth. The new or redesigned website these professionals deliver will become the cornerstone of your digital presence.
