Some things you should know

So you've decided it's time to design a website for your business but you're not sure what's involved? We know a little web design shop in Billings Montana that can help. But, if you're the type that likes to gather information anonymously, here are five things you should think about before you take the plunge:

1. What do you expect the website to do for your business?
   In other words, how is a website going to enhance your bottom line? Are you promoting a new product, wanting to capture sales leads, or maybe you just want to make sure potential clients can find you to learn more about your services. Knowing before hand what your goals and expectations are will help ensure that you get an effective and attractive website.
2. "Content is king". If you don't have any, you need to get some, and good stuff, soon. Images, service offerings, pricing--you probably have the basic components, but what makes your website stand out over others is presentation. Think of ways to enhance the presentation of your content to make it more interesting and compelling for your viewers to act on. Maybe it's your innovative use of technology, or your outstanding facilities that set you apart. Improving the delivery and presentation of these things is what converts a website visit into an email or a phone call. No matter how attractive your website is, it won't turn visitors into clients unless you can present a clear picture, through your content, of the potential benefits of a relationship with you.
3. Do you have a budget? You need to know this for any good web developer to be able to provide solutions within that budget. You need to do your homework first and make sure your budget is realistic. Quality web design firms charge anywhere from $1000 to over $2500 for a small, custom designed site. The same rule applies here as it does everywhere else in life: you get what you pay for and you pay for what you get. If you're looking for the next Facebook or ITunes phenomenon website, it probably won't come cheap.
   
4. How much time do you have? Can you keep your site updated and maintained yourself?  The last thing you want to do is to pay a couple thousand dollars for a website only to let it sit and rot away.  You'll never inspire anyone to do business with you that way. Keeping your site fresh and up to date is the best way to ensure a return on your investment. Whether you purchase some maintenance hours from your web designer or update the site yourself; if something is happening in your business, it should be happening on your website too.
5. Choose a design firm carefully . Review their previous work - especially recent work. Do you like their style, and do they offer the services you need? Talk to them on the phone to get a feel for how they do business. Make sure communicate your business needs and your expectations for a website. Get a proposal and written contract before writing a check. Knowing what you're getting into, you put the odds in your favor of launching a successful, productive website.