When a business wants to create a website, there are several aspects that have to be taken into consideration in determining which web development agency should finally get the job. To ensure that a business considers and reviews all relevant aspects, we suggest in this article steps to take during the choosing procedure. If a business follows these steps to consider the various options, it will be in a position to make a final decision.
Determine what the business expects from the website
Before a business even starts to consider any web developer for their website development it must determine what the business expects from its website. The business owner (or management and marketing team) must get together and decide what the new website must do for the business and its customers. More importantly, who is the website for and what is the value for your business.
Objectives
For small businesses, especially businesses offering professional services, the main objectives of a website are usually to
- build trust
- educate
- inform, and
- convert visitors into customers and frequent users.
Features
Business owners must also determine whether specific functions and features are needed. If, for instance, the business wants to utilise the site for e-commerce, secure payment gateways must be incorporated into the site’s development.
Target audience
The business must also decide whether it is going to address a specific audience and if so, what elements in a website are essential for that target audience.
Compare web development agencies
When business management and the marketers have clarity on what they need in their new website, they can start comparing website developer companies. A business should start comparing web development companies in the city where the business is located. Usually, it is easier to allocate the web design to an agency with which frequent personal contact is possible. If, for instance, the business is located in Sydney and the target audience is mainly NSW-based, a web developer Sydney may be a good choice. This is especially helpful with a more complex website, where you may need people to come on-site, learn more about your business or just to have a more personalised approach. However, locally based agencies is not always a decision factor, but can be helpful. Other aspects to compare include the following:
Relevant previous work
When agencies are compared, look for diversity in previous projects and industries served. It is important to look at work done for companies similar to yours. Industry-specific knowledge helps understanding your business’ website requirements.
Deadlines and budget
Verify with companies who previously worked with the agency whether it consistently met arranged deadlines and kept within the budget.
Technical skills
Another consideration is the agency’s level of technical skills regarding, amongst other things, the required frameworks, platforms and database management needed for your website. Also determine the agency’s approach to security.
Ongoing web development service
Any website needs continuous attention. Therefore ensure that the agency will be able to work with the in-house team during and after the site development. A successful long term relationship between a business and its web development company is only possible if the values and mission of the business and the developer company align with each other.
Conclusion
If a business considers all these points when deciding which web development agency to use for its new website’s development and maintenance it will become clear which agency will be the best to use.