When ordering a website, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure that the process goes smoothly and that you end up with a website that meets your needs and expectations.
First and foremost, make sure that you have login details to your domain and hosting accounts and website. This may seem obvious, but it’s important to ensure that you have access to your website and are able to make changes and updates as needed. Without login details, you may find yourself locked out of your own website, unable to make changes or even view your website.
Another important thing to consider is hosting. Many web designers purchase a large account and host all their websites on it to save money, but this can get you into a lot of trouble for many reasons. For one, if the web designer’s account is compromised or experiences technical issues, it can affect all the websites hosted on that account. Additionally, it can be difficult to move your website to a different hosting provider if you need to in the future. Therefore, it’s best to ensure that your website is hosted on a separate account.
When ordering a website, it’s also important to know which platform your web designer is using. There are many different platforms available, such as WordPress, Shopify, and others, and each one has its own set of features and capabilities. Knowing which platform your web designer is using will help you understand what you can expect from your website, and will also help you make informed decisions about what features and functionality you need.
Another important thing to keep in mind is to try to get a written offer from the web designer. This will help you understand what you’re getting for your money, and will also protect you in case there are any misunderstandings or issues down the road. A written offer should include things like the number of pages, the estimated completion time, and any other important details.
Finally, it’s important to check the web designer’s credentials and reviews. Make sure they have an ABN (Australian Business Number) so that if you have issues, you can go to Fair Trading. This will help you ensure that you’re working with a professional web designer who has a good reputation and can deliver the quality website you’re looking for. Additionally, you can check the designers portfolio and past work to get a sense of the quality of work they produce.
In conclusion, ordering a website can be a big investment, so it’s important to be informed and prepared to make sure that you get the website you want and need. By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your website is set up for success and that you’re working with a reputable and professional web designer. Remember to ask questions and don’t be afraid to ask for what you want, it’s your website and it’s important to make sure it’s done right.