Working with a Web Development Company

You've decided to take proposals from web development companies because you're updating, redesigning, or launching a new web site.

What should you look for in a company that's going to handle the project and what should you expect?

#1 Evaluate your own needs
Ask yourself, and answer the question, what do we want the web site to do for our business?
a) project a larger image through text, images and video
b) feature a new service
c) show customers the value they receive - that is, handle pricing issues
d) show the geographic area of our service
e) allow for customer feedback

#2 Static versus dynamic and size database do you need?
a) do you need a section that shows different products or services?
b) is it going to be more of an online brochure with images that don't need to change
for the next 2 - 3 years?

#3 Now ask questions of the web company:
a) Do they offer writing services, too
b) What level of programming do they think you'll need?
c) What size clients and what size budget do they normally serve?

Note: If they normally handle corporate clients, but you're a small client then will they handle your site in a timely manner? How can they back this up?

If they normally handle small to mid-size clients, but you're a corporate client or you need sophisticated levels of programming then can they handle the scope of work?

A Web Firm's Website

This may surprise you, but many web companies have web sites that are out of date. This could be a good sign if they're busy handling projects. I personally know some and they do good work.
You should like what you see.

Certainly ask for references or recently completed projects, too.

As for the price, just like in home improvement projects, the lowest price may be the worst price. Projects always take longer than expected. I've rarely ever seen it the other way. A company charging a higher price is positioning themselves to make a profit - and that will keep them in business. A company charging a low price to get the job could ultimately be asking for trouble.