More information

Don't see the answer to your question here? Call us at 250-334-9927 for your free 30 minute consultation, at our offices in Courtenay, in the Comox Valley.  At that meeting we will be happy to answer more of your specific questions.

Doug Zlikie website design

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Web Design

Many of our clients are new both to business and website marketing. Many are unaware how a web site can benefit them, and therefore come into their first consultation with lots of questions. We hope the following answers to some of the most commonly asked questions will give you the basic information you need when meeting with us to plan the design of your web site.

I know my business should have a website, but what will I need?

We can advise you on the most appropriate kind of website design for you or your business, as we have years of marketing experience to help guide you to the best web solutions. We won't be telling you you need a ferrari if you only need a family saloon.

What is a domain name and why do I need one?

A domain name is usually your name, or the name of your company, or perhaps an abbreviated version of either, such as www.emagination.ca. It is an excellent way for customers or contacts to remember your name when they wish to visit your web site.

Many internet service providers (such as Shaw Cable or Telus), offer a limited amount of web space free with your Internet access. This is a great solution for a small personal site, but not the answer for business or high-profile personal sites -- invariably the web addresses are totally unmemorable; you want potential visitors to remember your web address.

Can you help me find a domain name?

Yes, we can. Once we are contracted to do your web site we will help you with suggestions, and research the availability of the domain name you have selected. If you wish, we will also finalize the purchase for you.

Why do I need domain hosting; aren't domain names and domain hosting the same?

No, the domain name is the name of your site; then you also need somewhere to place the files so that the World Wide Web can access it. This is called your domain host and is usually supplied for an annual fee.

Can you host my domain name or can I go somewhere else?

The answer is “yes” to both. Emagination Design can host your web site or you can go to another service provider if you prefer. If you decide on another domain hosting service, we will require the username and passwords in order to upload your files to your web site.

How much does a web site cost?

Like asking how much a vehicle costs, it depends on what you want and what you need. The cost of the site will depend on the complexity, the number of pages, and the amount of work required. We are happy to offer our clients a free 30-minute consultation so we can understand your needs and give you an accurate quote for the work. You won't be paying for a Chevy Sprint if what you really want is a Ferrari!

Do you write the text for me?

Yes, we can take down the information and write the text for you. As you are the most knowledgeable person about your company’s products or services, we usually ask our clients to supply copy and ideas, which we will edit to make appropriate for web marketing.

Where do the pictures for my website come from?

Most of our clients have photographs that they want us to use. The better the quality of the photographs the more professional the site looks, and as the Internet is such a graphic medium, we want to use the best images possible. Alternatively, we have access to stock photos, or we can put you in touch with a photographer that will take the pictures for you.

What if I don't like the colours?

Once we have been contracted to build your web site, we discuss your likes and dislikes, to get a feel for you and your business. We certainly would not give a lumberjack girly pink (unless of course it was his favourite color). We do, however, have years of design experience, and will work with you on an appropriate colour palette.

How long will designing a website take?

The average turnaround is 4-6 weeks from the time all of the information (eg. photos, text) is received, however this can vary depending on the number of projects we have in hand for completion.

If your project is urgent, we will do our best to achieve your deadline, dependent upon when the contract to perform the work is agreed, the promptness of information delivered, and the number of changes/revisions required. There is an additional charge for rush jobs.

Will I be able to update my own website?

We have various systems that will suit every cient need. Some of our clients prefer that we do the updates for them, some just want to update text and photos, and some want to be able to update everything. Of course all these different options have different costs attached and we can help you choose the best content managment option for you and your budget.