Making an Informed Decision

Making an Informed Decision

Choosing the right website company is one of the most important business decisions you’ll make. A good website is an investment that helps your business grow, while a bad one can be a waste of money and cause endless frustration.

By now, you should have a solid understanding of:

  • What your website goals should be.
  • The best platform for your business.
  • How to ensure your site is SEO-friendly and high-performing.
  • The importance of security, maintenance, and ownership.
  • How to avoid scammy or unreliable web companies.

Final Checklist Before Hiring a Website Company

Before signing any contracts, go through this checklist to ensure you’re making the right choice.

1. Business Goals & Strategy

✅ I know what I want my website to achieve (e.g., leads, sales, bookings).
✅ I have a clear idea of what pages and features I need.
✅ I know how I will measure the success of my website.

2. Choosing the Right Platform

✅ I understand the pros and cons of WordPress, Shopify, Wix, or a custom-built site.
✅ I know whether I want to manage the website myself or rely on a developer.
✅ I’ve checked that my website can be moved to another provider if needed.

3. SEO & Performance

✅ My website will be mobile-friendly and optimised for search engines.
✅ The website company will set up Google Analytics and Search Console.
✅ My website will load quickly and follow SEO best practices.

4. Security & Ongoing Maintenance

✅ My site will have an SSL certificate (HTTPS).
✅ The company has a plan for updates, backups, and security.
✅ I understand who is responsible for maintaining my site after launch.

5. Content & User Experience

✅ My website will be easy to navigate and accessible to all users.
✅ Calls to Action (CTAs) will be clear and visible.
✅ I have a plan for creating or updating content on my site.

6. E-commerce & Payment Systems (If Applicable)

✅ My website will use a secure and reliable payment system.
✅ Shipping, tax, and order management are all set up correctly.
✅ The checkout process is fast and user-friendly.

7. Integrations & Automation

✅ My website can connect to my CRM, email marketing, or booking system.
✅ I understand how automation can save me time.
✅ The website company can set up any essential integrations.

8. Pricing & Ownership

✅ I know the full cost of the website, including ongoing fees.
✅ I will own my domain name and website after launch.
✅ I have full admin access and control over my website.

9. Choosing the Right Website Company

✅ They have good reviews and a portfolio of real client work.
✅ They communicate clearly and explain things in plain English.
✅ There are no hidden fees, long contracts, or vague pricing.
✅ They offer support or training for managing the site after launch.

Final Thoughts

Getting a website built can feel overwhelming, but by asking the right questions and understanding your options, you can make a smart, informed decision. A good website isn’t just about looking nice—it should be a valuable tool that supports your business growth and goals.

If you follow this guide and checklist, you’ll be well-prepared to work with a website company that delivers great results, fair pricing, and long-term value.

What’s Next?

Now that you have all the information you need, the next step is to start conversations with website providers. Use this guide as a reference, take your time to compare options, and don’t be afraid to ask plenty of questions.

Good luck with your website project!