FAQ
Do I need a web developer or a web designer?
In short... both. Web designers come up with the look and feel of the website. They design the graphics, set the colours, and have input into the words/pictures used on the website. Web developers actually build the website. They do the techie/coding stuff and build the systems behind the website that enable control panels to operate and shopping carts to work. We have a team of web designers and developers.
We can also work with 3rd party designers. Very often, web designers do not have sufficient development experience to deliver websites with complex functionality. We can work with designers to ensure the finished article ends up working efficiently as well as looking good. Or we can design and build the website for you completely in-house.
How much does a web site cost?
There are numerous factors that affect the ultimate cost of your web site. These factors include the design/layout, how many pages you are going to have, if you will sell products on your website and how interactive your website will be. You will also need web hosting and domain name registration. A website can cost from a few hundred pounds to many thousands of pounds, but most business websites fall somewhere in the £750 - £1,500 range. E-commerce sites are usually around the £3k mark.
Do I need to hire a "local" web site designer?
We usually prefer to work with local clients because it is easier to meet up and discuss requirements. However, since Covid forced us to do everything via Zoom and Teams for a couple of years, we regularly create web sites for clients who are located in other counties and sometimes other countries. Nowadays, it is possible to communicate effectively with clients in any location.
How long does it take to have a website designed and built?
The time taken is determined by the size of your web site, the complexity of your site design, and our current client design schedule. Typically, business websites take 6-8 weeks and e-commerce sites take a couple of months.
What is a URL?
URL stands for "universal resource locator". This is the address typed in to view your web page on the Internet. For example, you would type in http://webdesignsessex.com to access our home page and the URL of this page is http://www.webdesignsessex.com/faq
What is a domain name?
A domain name is a specific web site address that you choose and register, for example yourbusinessname.co.uk.
I am currently hosted with another web company and would like to switch over to your hosting services. How do I do this?
This is very straightforward, but does depend on a few factors. Please call us and we will explain what needs to be done.
What is web hosting?
Web hosting is simply somewhere to put your website so that it can be found on the Internet. It is basically a PC or server, hosted in a data centre, that has a special/fast connection to the Internet. For a small annual fee we can provide you with hosting services to have your site accessible on the Internet. We can also provide full email services.
Can I choose you to design my site and use my own web hosting?
Yes, you can use any web host you like unless you require content management facilities. Our systems are extremely complex and require specialist hosting and support. We can often host these websites elsewhere, but we would need to check out your hosting platform before making a commitment.
What is site maintenance?
Site maintenance is a fee paid monthly to keep your website running and up to date in terms of security, browser compatibility and functionality. In some cases this also includes the content of your website. Most good web sites have new content updated regularly. Fresh content is what will keep your visitors coming back. This is an optional service that we provide for our customers however, if you want to maintain your website yourself you can do so using our content management facilities (a simple to use control panel that operates behind your website)
Why can't I find my web site in the search engines?
Once your site has been submitted to the top Search Engines they may require several weeks, or even months to actually spider and list your web site in their directory. How fast your site is listed depends on each individual search engine. We can advise on all aspects of search engine submission and optimisation.
Web Site Content - What Do I Put On My Site?
That would depend on the goals of your web site. If you run a business website you would include as much information about your products or services that your customers would need to purchase from you. If you are struggling for words we can put you in touch with specialist copy writers who can help you to put your message across.