Establishing a web presence is sometimes quite confusing with all the jargon that gets tossed around.  Impressing you with a lot of technical jargon isn’t my way of doing business, I want you to understand the process in plain language.  Many of the questions we encounter are illustrated below, although each situation is different, we hope these general answers will help you make the right decision.  If you have a question that’s not answered here, just contact me and I’ll do what I can to help you.

Q:  Why should I choose a freelancer over a larger design firm?

A:  As a freelance website designer I focus on the needs of clients who may not need the wide scope of services (or price tag) offered by a larger design firm.  I am also able to tailor my services to your needs and budget since I only report to me.  If you need a large e-commerce website with the development company managing every aspect from development to adding product content, I’m probably not your best choice.  If however, you need a website for a church, small business, small county or city, limited e-commerce (you add products after setup), or organization, then we have a good fit.  I’m here in mid-Missouri and unlike some of my larger competitors, I can actually come see you to discuss your project or take pictures.

Q: How much will our website cost?

A:  Because of my low overhead as a freelancer, professional quality software, and experience, I am able to produce a website for significantly less than many other web design firms.  My rate ranges from $100.00-$150.00 per page, depending on the type of website, page content, development requirements, and time frame. If you would like to obtain a no obligation quote, just complete this Form and I’ll give you a budget estimate. If you have received a quote on a website and the price isn’t in your budget, please contact me, I’ll do my best to deliver a website you’ll be proud within your budget, minimum site development charge is $350.00.  If cost has been a roadblock to getting a professional website, I can get your business online and then expand your site in the future as your budget allows.

Q: What is a CMS or Content Management System?

A: A CMS or Content Management System is a site development platform that enables the end user (you), to make many of the changes to the text, images, and other content themselves without the assistance of a web developer.  Depending on the scope and size of your website, this may be a good alternative for you, especially if you anticipate many changes.  My basic HTML/CSS website uses a simpler content management system that although not as enhanced as a WordPress type website, still allows you to make many of the changes yourself.

Q:  Why do you prefer our website is hosted with Xpress-Sites?

A:  Quite honestly it’s to help you our customer should something go wrong with your website.  It’s technology and things happen.  Additionally, with our clients who choose WordPress for their website platform, be aware that not all hosting providers offer WordPress.  Although these are generally smaller local providers, some of the larger companies charge more for WordPress hosting…we include it.  We have clients who host their site elsewhere and sometimes it’s confusing to navigate to their site. By hosting your website, we have faster access to your website files should something occur that needs attention.  Don’t worry though, if you have your domain name with the big company that sponsors race cars, you can still have your website hosted with us.  Our hosting includes all of the bells and whistles ranging from full CPanel access, ability to edit files, add e-commerce capabilities, perform analytics, etc.  All at no additional charge…

Q: What is the process of getting started and the payment terms?

A: After we have agreed upon what you will require within the website, we will request a deposit to begin work, this is generally 50% of the project total (if $500.00 or less, payment is due at the time of order). Once the website is finished and approved by you, the remaining 50% will be due.  Upon payment the website will be published to the internet.  Major credit cards are accepted through Google Checkout and to help with your budgeting payment plans are available for larger projects, please contact me for details.

Q: Who develops the site content or descriptions about products and services?

A: I will ask you to send whatever information you may have available including text, brochures, images, website URL, etc.  Part of my service is developing your content in a way that’s appropriate for a website.  I understand how to develop content with links, site flow, and other SEO factors in mind.  Developing content for a website is different than for print or brochures and I develop or adjust content with site optimization in mind. If you do not have any information available or simply don’t have the time to pull the necessary content together, I can help with this as well at an additional charge.  Please contact me for more information.

Q: What features can I have on my site?

A: Aside from the standard features which include contact forms, maps, original design, etc. you can also have many other features to increase the functionality of your website.  Take care though, just because something can be done doesn’t mean it always should be.  I’ll work with you and make suggestions about what features may add to the user experience of your site, without being distracting.  Trust me, many people find audio that loads right away very annoying…especially if they are prone to searching the web on sleepless nights.

Q: Will my site appear on the major search engines?

A: Please keep in mind that there are millions of websites on the Internet and your site probably will not appear on the first page immediately or perhaps even at all. Appearing on the top shouldn’t be your goal, developing a useful website for your visitors should be. I focus on what is referred to as the organic search which concentrates on the content of your site, not gimmicks. Search engines are complex and base the ranking of your site on many factors and it may take a few months or longer for your site to begin its climb. If you place your web domain on business cards, brochures, and other advertising, your customers will be able to find you right away. I do not use nor encourage the use of coding methods that try to evade the search system, they typically are ineffective and could get your site banned by some search engines.  Most of my clients however see their site on the first few pages of the major search engines within just a few weeks.

Q: What is an organic search?

A: An organic search is a process by which visitors find web sites that appear in the body of the search engine, not in the sponsored links. The website is found by the search engine based on the content not tricks or paying to be there. Many of the search results at the very top of the results page are there because they are a “sponsored link”, this means they have paid to be there, this doesn’t mean the content is more relevant.  Many web users discount the validity of these links simply because they aren’t necessarily reflective of the sites content.

If you have a question that’s not answered here, just contact me for more information.