Tips for Choosing a Web Agency

People do judge books by their covers. Will you do the same when determining how to choose a web agency?

In 1974, readers were traumatized by the horror of Peter Benchley’s Jaws. The book cover artist, Roger Kastel, brought the tension of the story right into the cover art. He presents an image of the shark lurking underneath an oblivious swimmer. shutterstock

image via Shortlist.com

Choosing a web designer for a small business

Choosing a good web designer is extremely important when doing your search. Here are some of the reasons why you should ask questions.

1. Understand why web design is important

1. Credibility and Trust:
   • Key Statistics:
   • 75% of a website’s perceived credibility comes from its design (source: Statista research on digital marketing performance)1.
   • A professional and modern design instills confidence in visitors, encouraging them to engage further.
2. First Impressions:
   • 94% of first impressions are design-driven.
   • A clean, intuitive layout can immediately capture attention and set the tone for a positive user experience.
3. Conversion Rates:
   • A site with superior user experience can achieve visit-to-lead conversion rates up to 400% higher than poorly designed websites.
   • Strong calls-to-action and optimized landing pages significantly boost sales and engagement.
4. SEO Benefits:
   • Good web design improves search engine rankings by enhancing metrics like loading speed, mobile responsiveness, and user engagement.
5. Revenue Generation:
   • Businesses with well-designed websites report increased revenue due to improved customer trust and streamlined purchasing processes.

If you plan to build a new website or redesign an existing one, you’ll probably want to know how to choose a web agency. 

After all, the firm you select will be responsible for designing and developing your website, giving customers their first impression of your brand and organization.

Besides, as of 2022, there were over 26,900 web design companies in the U.S. Choosing one can be challenging. 

So how do you determine which web agency to choose?

Here are tips for choosing a web design company.

2. Identify your website needs

Understanding Your Goals & Objectives:

• What is the primary purpose of your website? (e.g., sell products/services, generate leads, provide information, build brand awareness, create a community, personal blog/portfolio).
• Who is your target audience? (Consider demographics, interests, online behavior).
• What specific actions do you want visitors to take on your website? (e.g., make a purchase, fill out a contact form, download a resource, subscribe to a newsletter, request a quote).
• What are your key performance indicators (KPIs) for the website’s success? (e.g., conversion rates, traffic volume, engagement metrics, lead quality).
• Do you have any existing branding guidelines? (e.g., logo, color palette, fonts, brand voice).
• What is your overall vision and long-term goals for your online presence?

Defining Your Website’s Functionality & Features:

• What type of website do you need? (e.g., basic informational website, e-commerce store, blog, portfolio site, membership site, booking platform).
• What specific pages will your website need? (e.g., Homepage, About Us, Services/Products, Contact, Blog, Portfolio, Pricing, FAQ).
• Do you require any specific features or functionalities?
• Do you need any integrations with other tools or platforms? (e.g., CRM, email marketing software, analytics platforms, social media APIs).

Considering Technical Aspects & Content:

• Do you have existing website content (text, images, videos)? If not, who will be responsible for creating it?
• Do you have high-quality images and videos available?
• Do you have a domain name registered?
• Do you have hosting set up? (If not, will the designer assist with this?)
• What level of ongoing website maintenance and support will you require? (e.g., security updates, content updates, technical support).
• What are your expectations for website speed and performance?
• Do you have any specific security requirements?
• Is mobile responsiveness a must-have (it absolutely should be)?
• What are your initial thoughts on the website’s design and overall aesthetic? (Provide examples of websites you like or dislike).

Budget & Timeline:

• What is your budget for the website project? (Be realistic and understand that quality web design is an investment).
• What is your desired timeline for the website launch? (Be aware that complex projects take more time).

Knowing your needs will make choosing the right designer much more straightforward.

Some, like Slocum Studio, will ask for a creative brief and get your thoughts on paper. Get your copy below.

Looking to grow your brand online?

Reviews and Testimonials

Please read through the feedback from their past clients. Most established web agencies will have their past clients’ reviews and testimonials on their websites.

Consider hiring designers with a good rating and positive feedback. Positive feedback is an indication the previous clients were happy with the results. You can also visit Better Business Bureau to access unbiased feedback.

Check the Web Agencies’ Portfolios and Case Studies

Web designers list their previous work on their websites. Go through their work and see if what you are looking for is what they do.

Check the businesses they have worked with in the past. Look to identify at least one you might have heard of or know. 

You want to see if you can trust the web agency to build trust in your website.

You can also check their clients’ websites. If you like what you see, you might consider working with them.

Case Studies

Please read through the case studies on their website. 

If you are pleased with everything, it’s time to schedule a meeting with them.