If designing your own website is out of the question because you don’t have the time or the expertise or you tried a do-it-yourself website platform with disastrous results; you may be thinking about finding a web design agency to help you. On the business-to-business side, digital marketing agencies may be looking to hire the right web design agency partner to help them design websites for their clients. But how does anyone know which web design agency to hire?
1. Create a list of options
Because of modern technology, it’s quite possible to hire a web design agency from a different city or state to help you build your website. On the other hand, it can be nice to work with a local web designer. You may want to consider a few local and non-local options. Create a list of options by doing an online search for web design agencies or ask other business owners with great websites who they hired to build theirs.
2. Visit each web design agency’s website
When you visit a web design agency’s website you get an immediate sense of their style and design abilities. Is the website appealing and easy to navigate? Does it show creativity and technical skill? Do they have graphics that attract your attention? How is the site’s load time? The website should also answer questions about the specific services they offer, which is important for finding a match. For example, maybe they offer ongoing support or design WordPress sites exclusively.
3. Look for sites they’ve created and testimonials
In addition to checking for Google, Yelp and Facebook reviews for each web design agency on your list, check the agency’s website for links to websites they built and testimonials from former clients. This will give you a broader idea of the design team’s capabilities as well as some insight into the experiences of people they’ve worked with in the past.
4. Narrow your list
At this stage, it’s a good idea to narrow the list to your top 2-3 choices. You should have learned enough about what each web designer can offer to know whether some aren’t the right fit.
5. Write a list of questions for each web design agency
Write down a list of questions specific to each web development agency you’re still interested in. Maybe they’re website doesn’t lay out pricing structure or you’re wondering whether they host websites or can handle complicated e-commerce platforms.
6. Contact each web design agency
Call each web design agency to let them know you’re interested in hiring a web design agency and have some questions for them. If they answer your questions to your satisfaction, then you may want to move the conversation to your expectations, goals and budget so they can let you know whether you’d be a good fit for their agency. During this conversation you’ll get a sense for their customer service skills and whether you think you can get a long during the project(s).
If you’re ready to hire a web design agency, these steps can help you find the right fit for your needs. A great website is more important than ever and choosing the right web design agency can make all the difference.
Softwired provides digital solutions for our partner agencies. We’ve got you covered for web design, SEO, local online presence and optimization, digital marketing, digital sales, and digital advertising. Whether you’re interested in a silent partnership or a referral program, web design only or more; contact us today to get started!