Everybody has seen those ads for "Custom" Websites starting as low as $299. They promise to provide a site that is nice to look at, easy to use and completely unique. So as an unsuspecting, trusting individual you click on the link and follow the directions to fill out the survey. You then proceed to provide the information that you would like on the website, how you would like it to look and so forth. You pay your money and wait. A few weeks (or maybe even days) later you get an email with a link to your brand new "customized" website. You are excited so you click on the link and find a one-page website that is simply a template with your information filled in. Never once did you speak to a real person. And they didn't mention to make sure you remember to pay your hosting fees. Or what happens if your site goes down. Or even who you would talk to if you need anything?
The question is: Now what? or better yet, How do I avoid this situation? There are a few easy tips that can keep you from wasting money.
1) Never work with a company that is not willing to meet face to face. Not only is it hard for you to convey to them exactly what it is that you want, it is also a very good sign that their idea of "customized" does not include personalized service.
2) Figure out what Custom really means. Some companies think that by handing you back a product that has your logo and company description already put on it, that they are handing you a customized product. However, any website that merely has had the content and graphics changed on it is still a template. Customized websites are built from the ground up so that the design and the development are both done specifically for your site.
3) Learn the details about hosting and maintenance before signing a contract. A lot of companies that offer "customized" sites really cheap, fail to mention that once your site is done, they are not going to be there to help you anymore. Find a company that offers monthly plans to handle hosting fees and will provide ongoing maintenance for your site. These plans generally range from $99 to $499 depending on what your company needs a month.
At Okeedoke Studios we strive to truly provide our clients with completely customized sites. Your relationship with Okeedoke starts with a free consultation and quote and can last a life time with our hosting and maintenance plans. We believe that providing customized sites begins with providing customized service. If this is the type of relationship that your company would like with your website designer, then lets set up a meeting and talk about redefining your image.