Custom Website
Businesses with complex ecosystems require a website that complements and enhances them
The goal of this service package is to create a website that fits seamlessly and works efficiently alongside all the moving parts of a complex business ecosystem.
How does it work?
- Onboarding - we start off with a call. This is where we discuss your budget and your goals to inform how we approach the project. At the end of this conversation, we will know how your website will be built, how much the project will cost, and how long it will take.
- Design - the project officially starts by creating a design prototype. For templated websites this process is relatively quick. The more bespoke the design, the longer this phase takes. At the end of this phase, you will know what your site is going to look like.
- Development and Testing - this stage is where the design becomes real. I build out the approved design and connect it to all the back end functions needed. During this phase, you can view the website on a staging site as it is built. You can use the site and test the functions to make sure it is perfect before we launch.
- Launch - this final stage moves the completed website from it’s staging environment to the live server. Once this stage is complete, your website will be public facing and ready for the your customers to find and use.
- Post-Launch Support - there are often teething problems in the early stages of a website’s life. For one month after the website is live, you can count on my technical support to fix any issues that arise from your site’s real-world use.
How do I ensure the design matches your brand and goals?
If you have brand guidelines, I am more than happy to work within them (it actually makes my job easier). If you don’t have brand guidelines, we still spend a good amount of time discussing your brand and talking about what your website should look and sound like. Beyond that, you have full oversight throughout the project with regular opportunities to provide feedback and ensure we stay on track to deliver the perfect digital embodiment of your business.
Do I use templates, or design websites from scratch?
For new businesses with a limited budget it is often easiest and quickest to use a template. We can make small adaptations to the template if needed. As your business grows, you can look at adding new features and creating a more bespoke design.
For those with larger budgets, we can create a more bespoke, brand-focused design that suits your business and enhances your goals.
What platforms do I build on?
The goal of a custom build is for your website to fit seamlessly into your existing systems to enhance your business and achieve your goals. For that reason, we first discuss your systems and the technology you already use. Based on this we find the best technology options to build your website with that fit your business systems. I have experience working with a wide array of different platforms and technologies, so whatever we decide to use there shouldn’t be a problem to build it.
Are there any hidden costs?
I am as upfront about costs as possible. I include costs for things like stock footage and staging site hosting in my fees. If any additional costs are required by the project, I will make you aware of them as early as possible and always look to find you a free alternative in case your budget does not allow for extra costs.
In terms of ongoing website costs you should be aware of, your website domain requires ongoing registration fees that are usually paid annually. There are often monthly hosting fees to consider as well. If you are unsure about what to do, I will advise you on your best course of action for free as part of my service.
Who owns the website once it is finished?
I encourage all my clients to have full control of their domain registration and hosting. If it is needed as part of my service, I will guide you on setting these things up. I also include training on your website systems at the end of every project so you know how things work. The goal is to create the website you want and hand it over to you entirely after it launches.
Why choose me over cheaper DIY options and offshore freelancers?
Before working together, there isn’t much to separate me from other freelancers. My value and difference comes from the relationship we build while working together. It is not for no reason that most of my clients continue working with me for years after our first project. What you get from me is clear, honest communication, non-exploitative pricing, and website expertise that you will grow to trust.
What happens after the website launches?
After your website launches, I make sure you fully understand how to make updates and use the platform. I also offer free support for one month after the launch to handle any teething problems that arise in the early days. After that month ends, you can get in touch with me for ad-hoc support or adding to your site.