What to look for in a web development company

Seems like everybody is doing web design.

Fact: Since the mid-1990s, web development has been one of the fastest growing industries in the world. In 1995 there were fewer than 1,000 web development companies in the United States alone, but by 2005 there were over 30,000 such companies.

The web development industry is expected to grow over 20% by 2010.

So you’re a small business owner, it’s 2008, and you know you need a website. And you have lots of choices. There are four criteria to look for when you want to hire a web development company.

1. Competency. Can the web development company do what they say they can do? Can they do what you want them to do? Ask to see examples of their work. Their portfolio will speak volumes about their competency.

2. Cost. How much will this project cost? Someone new might charge $500-$800 for a basic site. But will you be happy with that? Most web development companies with experience will charge $3000-$4000 for a site. If the site is complicated…costs go up from there. The days of the $20,000 websites are pretty much gone for the small business owner. If you have someone quoting you that price, shop around.

3. Time Frame. When you do want your website finished? Small developers have limited staff, and limited time. Ask for a deadline.

4. Compatability. “I think the most important thing to look for in web development company, is compatibility. Can I work with this individual or company? The Internet is the largest media resource around and should be taken very seriously,” says Cody Anderson from Jive Media. “So making sure the business is credible and that you are compatible are the most important things to look for in a web development company.”

Make sure you discuss all these issues when evaluating a web development company, and it will leave you more confident of your hiring choice.

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Chris Mitchell is the President and Founder of 25-8 Marketing, Inc, a full service advertising agency that plans and implements marketing programs for small to medium-sized businesses. He is a consultant, speaker and author and has worked with hundreds of companies. He has over 20 years of real-world advertising experience, and understands the marketing challenges of the small business owner.

website: http://www.258marketing.com
email: chris@258marketing.com