Choosing the right web design agency

So you’ve got your business going, perhaps even got them all important first few clients on board, however you know in order for your business to really get going you’ll need a website, but with the vast amount of web design agencies in and around Birmingham alone how do you go about choosing the right one?

Finding the right people for you and your business is an important decision as your web design agency will play a role in your businesses success so establishing a good working relationship is an important step.

So here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when choosing a Birmingham web design agency.

1. 1. Check out there website
      The first step should be to take a look at there own website. Take a look at there portfolio to see the type of work they do and if you like the work they produce. Also have a look for testimonials from previous clients to get an idea of their experiences. Finally make sure the companies website itself is up to scratch.
   2. What is there process?
      Find out what there process is for delivering your website. Make sure they have a clear process in place for researching, designing, developing and deploying your website. Have they asked you who your competitors are, exactly what your aims are for the website, who your clients are etc. These are all important questions that need to be established if the final website is to be a true success.
   3. Do they follow best industry practices?
      Make sure you know what your getting. If you’re having a content managed website are they using industry established platforms such as WordPress or Magento or are they using an in-house content management system that will make life very difficult for you later on down the line if you ever decide to move elsewhere. Platforms such as WordPress are safe, secure and are backed by users worldwide.
   4. Do they build responsive?
      Having your site mobile friendly and ensuring it responds and adapts to different devices is now a must for any website. Google will now favour mobile friendly sites over those who aren’t so make sure your web design agency builds responsive sites as standard, if not look elsewhere.
   5. Do they understand your business?
      Your website will most likely be the driving force behind sales for your business, whether that means selling directly through your website or simply using your website as a tool to provide information and push your message. Its important your web design agency understand the message you’re aiming to put across so they can deliver a website thats fit for purpose and on brief.
   6. What are the ongoing costs?
      Naturally they’ll be ongoing costs associated with any website whether thats hosting, seo etc however make sure you fully understand the costs involved. Your web design agency should be interested in building a relationship with you and passionate about making your business work. Find out if they are keen to stay around to build a good working relationship and are not just in it to make a quick pound.
   7. Can you work long term with them?
      Finally ask yourself if you can work longterm with them. Establishing a good relationship with your web design company will make life easier going forward when you need questions answered or need changes making.

With these tips in mind you in a good position to choose the perfect Birmingham web design company for you and your business.