Top Questions to Ask a Website Designer Before Building Your Business Website
Building a new website is an exciting step for your business—but choosing the right designer or agency is just as important as the design itself. The right partnership ensures your website is not only beautiful but functional, user-friendly, and built to grow with your business.
Before you commit, here are the top questions to ask a website designer to make sure you’re on the same page and set up for success:
1. What’s your design process like?
Understanding how a designer works from kickoff to launch can help you set expectations. Do they start with strategy and wireframes? Will you be involved in reviews and approvals along the way?
2. Will my website be custom-built or based on a template?
There’s a big difference between fully custom websites and off-the-shelf templates. Ask how much flexibility you’ll have for branding, functionality, and future updates.
3. Do you handle both design and development?
Some designers specialize in visual design, while others can build the full site too. It’s helpful to know if you’ll need to bring in a developer—or if the designer offers a complete solution. Also make sure they will make your site mobile responsive!
4. Is the site built with SEO and performance in mind?
A great-looking site isn’t enough. It should also be optimized for search engines, mobile devices, and fast loading times. Ask about technical SEO, image compression, and mobile responsiveness.
5. Will I be able to update the site myself?
Make sure you’ll have access to the backend of your site and that it’s built on a platform you’re comfortable managing (like WordPress). Ask about training or documentation, too.
6. What is your timeline and availability?
Get a clear idea of how long the project will take and whether the designer can meet your schedule. Also ask how many other projects they’ll be juggling during yours.
7. Do I need to have all my content ready before we start?
Yes—having your content ready early in the process is a huge advantage. Your site’s layout, flow, and design decisions are all driven by the words, images, and messages you want to communicate. When content is delayed or created last-minute, it often leads to rushed revisions or design compromises.
If you’re still developing content, talk with your designer early. Some web design teams offer content writing or can help structure your messaging to fit your goals. The more aligned your content and design are from the beginning, the stronger and more effective your website will be.
8. What happens after launch?
Websites need updates, backups, and occasional troubleshooting. Does the designer offer support, maintenance, or hosting? It’s good to know what’s included—or what you’ll need to handle yourself.