Starting a new website project can often be a little bit intimidating as there is lots of technical language and jargon used in the industry.
But please do not worry, I am here to guide you every step of the way and no question is off limits!
One of my favourite parts of this job is learning about different businesses and meeting lovely clients helping them get an outcome they are proud to show off- whilst also having a laugh or two.
We are always here to help and explain as best we can and guide you through the process.
Q. How long will my website take?
A. Typical build for a brochure-style 6-page website is around 6- 8 weeks. A brochure-style site is an informative website, like an actual brochure. For more technical websites this timeline is different depending on specifications.
Q. I don’t have a logo yet can I get started on my website?
A. We would recommend getting a logo designed before we start the website project. The logo sets the tone and branding for the site. We tend to design the logo as a project first and then move on to the website after.
Q. I already have a set of brand guidelines and logo, can you work to this?
A. Of course we are happy to work with your current branding. However sometimes when changing the website this is a good time to see if your branding is still fit for purpose, or if it needs a little revamp to stay more aligned with your goals and vision.
Q. Can I write my own copy?
A. Some clients wish to write their own content, which is no problem. However, when writing copy you want to ensure you are keeping in mind writing for web. We do have a fantastic copywriter, who can take all the hard work off your plate. Writing for websites is very different from writing for other mediums, and we research the keywords that you want to be showing up for on search engines.
Q. I have taken some photos on my iPhone can I use them on my website?
A. Some images taken on phone can be good enough for web, however when sending over imagery for us to use on a website we always ask that it is sent in the highest resolution possible and the best quality images. Imagery can really make a website pop and enhance the overall quality so we do have a list of recommended photographers we can use.
Q. Can we use stock imagery on our site?
We do try and avoid using stock imagery, however, sometimes it is necessary. Where possible we would recommend using original imagery of your business, however, we understand this can’t always be the case in all industries. Where possible we will try and use free imagery, however where we need to use purchased imagery we will get you to approve any costs before purchasing, and use watermarked imagery in the development phase.
Q. My website has just been built why is it not showing up on Google?
A. If you are not transferring from a previous website and starting from scratch it does take Google a little while to start indexing your site. The bots have to crawl the whole site and scan it for information. Setting up a google my business LINK will help index quicker, please let us know if you need help with this.
Q. Can I make updates on my homepage?
A. If you take our CMS hosting we can give you editor access to your website. This allows you to make text and image updates. If you have an E-commerce website we can set it up so you can add products yourself and take more control. We are happy to do training with you or we offer maintenance packages so we can do the work for you. So you can be as hands on or hands off as you like.
Q. Is the website mine?
A. Of course, we like to think of it as we are caretakers of your website. You own the website and we are happy to look after it and maintain it for you.
Q. Can you make me number 1 on Google?
A. This is one of the top asked questions! SEO is a complicated beast and requires long term strategy. No company can guarantee you the number 1 spot overnight. We build the site with SEO in mind, and then we adapt as necessary. The key to search engine success is to keep your site current and relevant by adding content regularly in the form of blogs and newsletters. We have SEO packages that can help maintain your site to its best, but also we have some handy tips that you can also do yourself. Ensuring you have a presence on social media also increases your SEO.
I hope that helps answer some of your initial questions when embarking on a new website, and please feel free to contact me if you have any more questions liz@designintheshires.co.uk
