How to Choose a Web Design Company

May 20, 2020 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

On the Internet today, there are many people who call themselves web designers and web design companies. Some people do it for fun, as a hobby or part-time. Web designers that design full-time are the way to go. Someone who does web design in their part-time tends not to take it as seriously as someone who does it for a living. There are also people who do web design, who have no formal training. Make sure your web designer has some formal training from a recognized school. People who are self taught, although I applaud them for doing it, have relied on the Internet for all their information, and as you know information on the Internet can be inaccurate.

Relevant Experience

The web design company you choose for your project should have relevant experience. If you would like them to design a e-commerce website, it is best to choose a web designer who has e-commerce websites in their portfolio. Your web design company should be ready to submit a proposal for your website project along with a contract. Beware of companies who don’t give you a formal contract. The contract should outline exactly what the web designer will do and how long it will take, the price, and what you have agreed to supply. A formal contract is the best way to avoid disagreements between the web designer and you. Make sure your contract outlines every possible problem that can happen.

Different types of websites

There are different types of websites such as: static HTML (brochure type), e-commerce (with a shopping cart), database, and a website with your own content management system. All of these must come into perspective when you are looking for a web design company. Your best bet when choosing a web design company is to have a face to face meeting when discussing what it is you would like to have your website look like, also some sketches and some addresses of websites that you like. This gives the web design company the chance to fully understand what you are looking for and a better chance to give you an accurate proposal.

Things to take into consideration

Does the web design company have an update package? You must know that after your website has been created, from time to time you will require updates. Maybe they will be small maybe not. If the web design company you are choosing does not have an update package, you should inquire about the price of updates after the initial design. You should take the price of updates into consideration before you begin the design process. Make sure the web design company or web designer you choose sets realistic goals for the timeline. Usually if it sounds too good to be true then it is.

You would also have to consider guarantees. Does your potential web design company offer a guarantee? Most web design companies do not. So when you find one who does, you can know that they feel very confident in their capabilities. Another thing to consider is: Does the web design company display a phone number that they can be contacted at. Sometimes as a client you would like to speak with someone, not just get a reply to an e-mail the next day.

What Are Local Business Citations?

A local business citation is simply any mention of your business’s name, address, and phone number (NAP) on the internet. Citations can appear in many places, such as:

Online business directories like Yelp, Angi, and Yellow Pages
Local chamber of commerce websites
Social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn
Map and navigation apps like Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Waze
Review sites and local blogs

Each time your business information appears online, it helps confirm to search engines — and potential customers — that your business is real, trustworthy, and active in your local area.

To learn more about how Google uses this information, check out the official Google Business Profile Help Center

Why Are Local Citations Important for Local SEO?

Search engines like Google and Bing rely on consistent business information to determine which local businesses to show in search results. When your business’s NAP information is the same across multiple reputable websites, it strengthens your credibility and helps improve your local search rankings.

Here’s how local citations help your business grow online:

Boosts Local Search Rankings
Consistent citations tell search engines that your business is legitimate and active, which can help you rank higher in the Google Local Pack (the map listings that show up for local searches). For more insight, check out this Moz guide on local SEO and citations
Builds Trust With Search Engines and Customers
When customers see your business listed in multiple directories, it builds trust and brand awareness. People tend to click on and call businesses they recognize and see frequently online.
Increases Website Traffic and Phone Calls
Every citation gives your business another opportunity to be found by potential customers searching for your products or services. More visibility often means more website visits, phone calls, and leads.
Improves Your Online Reputation
Many citation sources allow customers to leave reviews. Positive reviews on trusted directories can help attract more customers and build your reputation online.