Entrepreneurs often make the mistake of hiring a website developer before they’ve done their homework. That’s the consensus of entrepreneur Stephen Joyce and consultant Jennifer Galley, who both have extensive experience in website development.
Joyce runs Sentias Software Corp., a Vancouver firm specializing in Internet applications for the tourism and retail sectors. Galley has helped numerous clients with e-marketing projects.
They both stress the importance of being well prepared before meeting with prospective website developers.
You should start the process by asking yourself some important questions. What do you intend to do with your website and why? Do you want to generate sales leads, sell products online or handle bookings? Do you expect to generate a measurable return on investment from your website? What is your budget?
Look at other websites and decide what you like in terms of look and feel so that you have an idea of what you want.
Joyce also recommends developing a web plan. “It keeps you focused and serves as a blueprint for your project,” he says.
Your plan should lead you to ask a developer the following questions.
1. How much do you know about my business and the industry I’m in?
Familiarity with your business and industry makes a difference. “If you are in the heavy manufacturing business and the developer has only worked for non-profits, for instance,” says Galley, “they may not be the right fit for you.”
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