Frequently Asked Questions
How much do you charge to build a Web site?
It varies, depending on the size of the job. On the low end, I can design a custom banner and install WordPress 3.0 for just a couple hundred dollars. On the high end, I can develop an entire multi-level site with extensive graphic theme and customized database for a few thousand.
Why should I spend the money if my web hosting company offers pre-designed templates for free?
I must admit, I’ve seen some decent templates out there. But here’s the thing about templates. If you use a template, odds are that there are hundreds, perhaps thousands, of other Web sites that look identical to yours. And the better-looking the template, the more Web sites are using it.
That’s okay for a personal blog, but not so good if you are looking to attract people to your business site. Much better to invest in a look unique to your organization.
Can you guarantee a Web site you design will improve my business?
A Web site is a crucial part of any marketing plan. Just as a well-tailored business suit increases your chances of landing a job, a professionally-designed Web site helps to facilitate the process of turning visitors into customers.
How you run other aspects of your business (social media marketing, customer service, product quality, controlling expenses, etc.) also have an impact on your bottom line. But unless you have an attractive and effective Web site, no one will know you exist.
There are no guarantees, but there are things you can do to improve your odds and one of them is to hire an experienced professional to design your Web site.
Can’t I just learn how to design a site myself?
Of course. You can also learn how to sew your own clothes, build your own car and construct your own office building. But what’s the best use of your time? Designing a professional Web site isn’t as simple as creating a basic HTML page that says “Hi, how are you?” or editing your ex out of that photo of you at the beach.
You must learn the various programming languages (HTML, CSS, PHP, MySQL, Javascript, etc.). You also need to learn how to develop engaging visual themes that scale nicely on a wide range of screen sizes and on various browsers. It’s a tricky art, let me tell you.
That’s not to say you can’t do it. But your time is probably better spent running your business than learning how to build Web sites.
Have more questions? Send me an email at dharmashanti@gmail.com or call at 602-828-2929.
