When choosing a website design package, the options can be overwhelming. Websites can vary widely in terms of size, functionality, and complexity. This guide will help you navigate these options to make an informed decision before selecting website packages.
The Core Components of Website Packages
Let’s look at the ten basic features every web design package should offer:
Custom Website Design
Your brand should shine through your website design. It’s important to ensure your web designer isn’t simply using generic templates. A custom design tailored to your audience will set your brand apart and ensure your website is a success.
Integration with Social Media
Your website should serve as the hub of all your marketing efforts. With the prevalence of social media, your site must integrate seamlessly with platforms like Facebook and Instagram. A good web design package will facilitate this integration.
Stock Images and Image Editing
Quality images are crucial for engaging your audience. Web images must be cropped, trimmed, and compressed for optimal page speed. A comprehensive web design package should include relevant, high-quality stock images.
Scalability
As your business evolves, so should your website. Your chosen package should allow for easy addition of new pages and features, such as eCommerce functionality, without significant additional costs.
Basic Search Engine Optimization
SEO is a must for any website. It ensures your site ranks well on search engines like Google. Any worthwhile web design package will include basic SEO practices.
Support and Maintenance for Your Website & Web Hosting
In the digital age, a website is a key asset for any business. Therefore, it’s critical to ensure your website is well-maintained and supported. A comprehensive website package should include support, security, hosting, and maintenance plans. These provisions safeguard your site against outdated programming languages, broken functionalities, and data loss.
A proper backup system can restore your website within an hour if anything goes wrong. Remember, a non-functional website could mean a potential loss of sales – bad news for any business. Consider your website as an investment and the included support and maintenance as insurance.
Access to Your Web Hosting Manager
Whether you use Cpanel, Plesk, or Direct Admin, your website package should provide access to your web hosting manager. Even if you wait to utilize all its features, having access ensures you’re not trapped with your current web developer if you decide to switch.
A Content Management System (CMS) and Training
Content Management Systems like WordPress empower non-tech-savvy individuals to change their websites. A good website design package should offer a reliable CMS and training on how to use it.
This lets you control your website’s content without altering its base design. You should have full access to your site and receive the necessary training to adjust. Your package should include a comprehensive training program, either face-to-face or online.
Transparent Pricing
When selecting a website design package, choose one with a fixed cost that suits your budget. Good industry practice involves your designer identifying your needs upfront and providing a project quote based on these requirements. Beware of designers who add costs as the project progresses unless these are for additional features you’ve requested.
Mobile Responsive Design
With the proliferation of mobile devices, it’s essential to have a mobile and tablet-friendly website. If mobile users need help navigating your site, they’ll likely leave quickly, reducing the chances of a sale. Additionally, ensure your website is compatible with all browsers. Your design package should include making your site responsive and browser-compatible.
In Summary,
These are vital considerations when selecting a website design package. Don’t settle for less. Ensure your package provides everything you need for a unique, functional site that converts visitors into customers.
