How to select a web design agency? This question is frequently asked by business owners. The answer isn’t simple, yet the process doesn’t need to be daunting.
When it comes time for your company to develop or redesign a website, you want to work with an agency that understands your industry and goals. After all, they will be in charge of creating an identity and image for your brand—an important responsibility!
However, selecting the right agency can feel like a minefield: there are thousands out there boasting about their skills and experience when in reality, they haven’t done anything particularly exceptional or innovative. You know you should use this opportunity to find someone who has the ability to create fresh, engaging content that’s perfectly formulated for search engines such as Google. But how do you find them?
Most companies start by looking for agencies in their locality, only to be presented with a long list of irrelevant results. The truth is that geography doesn’t matter that much—the best agencies are no more than an hour away, wherever you are in the country. So, the initial approach should be broad-based.
Start by refining your search parameters. Before beginning your research, think about why you’re creating a website and what sort of outcomes you want to achieve from it (for example: generate leads; improve brand awareness; drive sales). Armed with this information, it will be easier to assess different agencies against one another, so choose wisely!
Searching online is quick and easy, but it’s always worth looking beyond the first few pages of search results. Use Google’s own tools such as AdWords and Analytics to show ads that relate to your business; check out social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook for recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues; if you’re a member of a relevant industry body or trade association, they may also be able to recommend agencies.
If you don’t already have a clear idea about the design agency you want to hire, take some time to research their work online. Have they produced websites similar to what your company is looking for? If so, these would be good choices since they obviously know what looks good and can adapt their styles accordingly. You may also want to look at the way other companies have used their services, which you can find through testimonials and reviews.
If your web design agency is an extension of your physical premises, why not let the agency come to you? It gives them the opportunity to understand what you do in person and gain insight into your company culture. This will help them create a more accurate picture of who your target audience is and how they would expect to engage with your organization online.