The web design and branding process can be daunting for new business owners who have never worked with a web designer before. The process can be an absolute dream or a horrible nightmare. It is important to vet your potential web designer so the process will be an enjoyable one for you. Most design agencies should offer some kind of design consultation, free or paid, in which you can ask questions and learn more about the company. We encourage you to book that design consultation. Here are 7 essential questions that you should ask your potential designer.
Where can I find your portfolio?
You need to know if your potential web designer has designed before and should be able to see their results. It is good idea to see if the web designer has a specific style/niche or if they can design for a variety of different industries. Most agencies have their portfolio linked on their website, but if they do not, be sure to ask the potential designer if you can see their work or speak to their previous clients.
When can you start?
If the designer says they can start immediately then you should be alarmed. Reputable web designers who dedicate time to their clients are booked for at least 2-3 weeks before they can start on your project. Make sure you prepare and start looking for your web designer about 2-3 months in advance so you can get on their schedule.
What is your design process?
Web designers with experience working one-on-one with clients should be able to tell you their design process and how they will keep you involved in the process. Make sure to ask how they will communicate with you and if/when you will be able to see the iterations. If you are interested in learning more about out design process check out our Easy 6 Step Design Process.
Do you outsource any of your work?
Believe it or not, many companies or individuals who advertise web design services, do not actually do the work. They outsource the web design to a 3rd party and acts as a middleman to your project. This can lead to an outcome that doesn’t fully meet your needs, design delays and communication projects. Make sure to ask your potential web designer if they will be doing the work themselves or not.
How many revisions are allowed?
Be aware of web designers who deliver a project quickly and don’t offer any revisions. It is likely they have a pre-set template that they are using for your project. If you are looking for a unique design tailored to your specifications, you should find a web designer that offers revisions. About 2-3 revisions is acceptable for a standard design project.
How long will it take to design my site/brand?
There is no right or wrong answer here. This will depend on your preferences and timeline. You want a designer that is going to dedicate time in making sure the project is delivered to your specifications but at the same time, you may not want to wait 6 months to a year for your final product. Each agency has different timelines so make sure you ask so you know how long to expect.
What is your pricing?
You want to make sure that the project will fit in your budget. Web design and branding prices vary widely between designers. This could be due to their experience, the design tools being used, and how much time and energy they put into the design process. Many potential web designers list their pricing on their site, while others keep it hidden. Again, there are no right or wrong answers here, but make sure you ask about pricing so you know if the web designer’s pricing will fit your budget.
Well there you have it. You are on your way to the new web and branding design that you’ve been looking for.
Here’s a recap of the questions you should ask:
- Where can I find our portfolio?
- When can you start?
- What is your design process?
- Do you outsource any of your work?
- How many revisions are allowed?
- How long will it take?
- What is your pricing?
Finding a web and branding designer to bring your ideas to life shouldn’t be a difficult, grueling process. Schedule a design consultation and make sure to ask questions to make sure the potential designer is a good fit for you and your business. Likewise, the designer should be asking you questions to make sure that their services are a great fit for you as well.
We hope you these questions will help you find the web designer of your dreams. If you’re thinking about working with us, book a design consultation and let’s get started on your dream project
