JTech Communications Logo
JTech Communications

5 Things to Look for in a Web Development Company

By Mira Brody - Last Updated on 07/31/2018
If you’re in the market for a new website, it is important to set certain expectations while shopping around for a web developer. We’ve put together a list of things you should look for during this process to ensure your business is making the best possible investment.

1. They are responsible for their own equipment and services
When investing in a new online presence, don’t settle for a one-trick pony. A web development company that is versed in more than one area of online business expertise, will have your best interests in mind and the tools to provide you with comprehensive support. Some departments to inquire about are digital marketing, web design, user experience and content strategy. When a development company has more than just coding experience, they can provide a holistic approach to serving your company.

In addition to services and experience, ask if they provide in-house hosting and domain management. Many web developers will pass you off to GoDaddy or your email or internet provider when they can’t answer your questions — or be unreachable all together. When you need help with your site or domain registration, there should be one, single number to call.

2. They value ongoing communication
A good web development team will listen to your ideas as well as offer their own. They should be reachable and communicative before and during the build of your site, but also proactive after its launch, looking for opportunities of improvement and growth. There should be no question about what number you call when you need something relating to our online business, and someone at the firm should answer the phone or your emails whenever you need them.

3. Their clients are happy
Does the company feature reviews, or allow you to reach out to their clients for feedback? They should be proud of the work the’ve done and in close contact with businesses they’ve completed projects for. Before you become a new client of theirs, make sure it’s a relationship you are confident going into.

4. They react to industry changes
Sometimes major industry changes can effect your search ranking, online security and other aspects of your website. Professionals in the web development industry will care about being up-to-date with industry standards, including software updates, security changes and anything else that may help or hinder your ability to do business online.

5. Not “too cheap to be true”
A website is an investment in your company. You’d think twice if you saw a brand-new Tesla on Craigslist listed for $500 — and you should be just as wary of development firms boasting sites at a too-good-to-be-true price-point. They should also be transparent in their fees. How much do they charge per hour? Do they have a budget with each item clearly outlined? A professional web development company who is worth their price will be open to discussing why something costs what it does, and be clear about what is included in a website build — as well as how edits and other ongoing fees are applied after a project is completed.

Conclusion
Building and launching a new website for your business is a big investment and can seem intimidating. Although every business has unique needs and there are many details to keep an eye out for, these tips are meant to help you while you’re shopping around for a new web developer to embark on this journey with.
Mira Brody:

About Mira Brody

Mira Brody is an editor, writer, and marketing expert with 12+ years of experience. She has worked as a local news reporter, a writer/editor, and as a leader in large-scale branding strategy. Mira worked at JTech as the staff writer and editor for internal and client projects from March 2015 to December 2019.

Monthly inbox insights.

Our articles are published for free on our blog.
First Name
Last Name
Email Address