Questions to Ask a Web Designer Before Hiring One

Asking the right questions can ensure you get the best fit for your marketing goals.

A professional website can be your business's most essential marketing tool—but planning, developing, managing, and maintaining a website is no easy task.  

A web designer can help you improve your web presence and attract new customers with end-to-end web design services from conceptualization to launch. A recent survey shows that nearly one-third of overall business services purchasers contracted for custom web development for their most recent engagement, which includes web design services. 

If you're a small-business leader, you may be unsure how to select a web design agency from the many available options. Knowing which questions to ask a potential service provider can help you to refine your search in an educated way.

Things to know before hiring a web designer 

When you've made the decision to hire someone to design a new website, redesign your current website, or manage a site, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are some things to consider while you search. 

Different types of web designers

• Freelance web designer: A freelance web designer is an independent contractor. Many web designers offer their services through online freelance marketplaces. The quality, reliability, and cost vary widely, so make sure you do your research. 

• Agency web designer: The other option is to work with a marketing agency that specializes in developing, designing, and managing websites. Large, full-service firms typically have an account manager and a team of web professionals, each playing a role that ranges from information technology and creative design to web copywriting and digital marketing. You'll also have access to more extensive digital marketing services (e.g., social media marketing, PPC advertising, etc.). Small or midsize agencies specializing in web design may be less expensive but offer more personalized attention.

Web designers have a wide range of experience and skills. Some may have more experience in the creative or functional aspects. Others may specialize in certain industries or types of websites (e.g., educational versus eCommerce). When choosing a web designer, regardless of whether you go with a freelance designer or an agency, consider how well they mesh with your goals.

Difference between website designers and web developers

The main difference between the two roles is that a web designer focuses on the front-end design (look and feel), whereas a web developer works on the back-end technology (function). 

Web designers are usually trained in using creative techniques and design software. In contrast, a web developer has expertise in programming and other IT functions. 

Some web designers can handle some back-end coding (i.e., HTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP, etc.).

What to look for when hiring a website design company 

When you're looking for a website design company to hire, it's essential to realize that they're not all created equal. They will vary widely in all aspects of website design, from services offered to fees.  

Here are a few things to consider: 

• Types of services offered 

• Web design processes 

• Communication approach 

• Design fees and payment options 

• Portfolio and case studies 

• Testimonials, reviews, and references 

• Experience, skills, knowledge, and expertise  

• Years in business

Questions to ask a website designer 

Before hiring a designer, it's a good idea to generate a list of questions to ask during your initial conversation. The following list covers the basics, but you should tailor the list based on your unique website needs:

   Questions about the web design process 

Every web designer will have a different workflow or process, and it's important to understand theirs before you go into business with them to ensure that they can easily collaborate with you. 

• What is your design process?  

• Who will I be working closely with? 

• What information do you look for from your clients before you begin a project? 

• Will you help us structure the content of our site (and potentially help write new content if needed), or do you expect finalized content before you begin design?  

• Who will provide the images and copy for my website? 

• What files and assets do you plan to hand off to the developer? 

• Will you be able to collaborate with the developer to ensure the final website honors the intent of the design?

   Questions about the web design timeline

The web design timeline, including keeping you up to date on the progress, is a key part of the overall process. 

• How do you set a timeline for your projects? 

• How long will it take to design the site? 

• Will we have a chance to provide feedback throughout the project? 

• At what point(s) will you share progress and receive feedback?  

   Questions about available website design services 

You want to ensure that the chosen agency and dedicated designer can provide the services suited to your business goals. In addition, confirm their payment terms. 

• Do you offer services other than web design? 

• Do you follow SEO best practices? 

• Are your web designs mobile-friendly? 

• Will you integrate my marketing strategies? 

• Which services would you provide with my budget? 

• Do you bill per project or per hour?

   Questions about the websites they create 

Before hiring a website designer, it's essential to know that they're capable of building a website that meets your needs. This is especially important if you or a staff member plans to manage the content updates. Make sure the websites they've done for other clients are a close match to what you're looking for in quality, function, etc.

• Which software do you use to create websites? 

• Which content management system do you use? 

• Do you have a portfolio or case studies of past clients?