10 Questions to Ask Before you Choose a Web Designer

Questions to Help You Interview a Web Designer

by Beth Cole

How did you choose your last web designer? Was it because of a referral, possibly?

I think referrals are an awesome way to find a great web design partner, but in addition to checking out design portfolios you might also consider interviewing your next web designer with questions like these.

1. What projects do you love working on? [Learn if your project is a good fit.]
2. Who’s responsible for setting timelines and keeping the ball rolling? [Can this person meet a deadline.]
3. Tell me about your repeat clients? [Satisfied clients are a great indicator of good quality.]
4. What project has been your absolute favorite and why? [Gives insight into whether your project is a good fit.]
5. What makes you different than other web designers? [Differentiation is tricky so the answer will give you good insight into what makes this company tick.]
6. Do you recommend and use a content management system (CMS)? [Projects vary but I would say a CMS is quite important to keep your site fresh.]
7. What kind of training do you provide? [If you want to learn how to manage your site and you can find a teaching attitude, you will be in great shape.]
8. Are there any ongoing fees for your services? [In addition to hosting, there may be other fees, you don’t know unless you ask.]
9. How long will it take to finish the project? [Timelines can be thrown off by indecisiveness, too many opinions, or too many projects, but you need to start off with some time expectation in sight.]
10. Why should I hire you? [Will tell you if this company knows its strengths.]

To find web design companies to interview you might try 37Signals new gallery, Sortfolio, or a matching service like Elance.

What have I overlooked? Look forward to your comments.