I thought I would address how I usually work with my clients and the steps involved. I am very flexible and can adjust to almost any other way that you would like to work on your project. Please feel free to contact me with any other concerns or questions that you might have.

The topics below are, for the most part, related to having a website designed or developed. However, most design or development projects follow the same basic chronology and guidelines …

If you prefer, I can register your domain name and obtain hosting for you. I will locate the best deal for your budget and for the technical requirements of your website. I have found that most of my clients prefer to have me handle this process, however that is not a requirement. Already have hosting? No problem. I can work with almost any hosting company.

My rates are by the hour, however you will not have to worry about keeping track of the time. I will give you a flat bid based on the time I think it will take for me to complete the project, and I will notify you if more time will be needed to accomplish any extra tasks that you might request. Usually minor changes and additions do not add to the cost; however, I will keep you well informed. I keep track of all time worked, and you will not be charged for any mistakes that I have made through my estimation bid. In fact, I will often finish with a lower total than what was originally bid!

My rates are very reasonable, and I can work within almost any budget. Please contact me for your FREE quote and e-mail consultation.

I will always help you save time/money throughout this project by providing you ways to make the work I do go faster and smoother. For instance, time can be saved by sending me documents already typed and/or digitized, images already scanned, and the text copy already proofed.

I will not give you a “template” or “cookie-cutter” website. Your project will be custom-designed according to your specifications, color choices, industry and target audience. With most projects, I will provide several layouts from which you may choose. You may participate in all stages of design and development. I welcome your feedback and suggestions. After all, I want you to be completely satisfied with the final result.

Stage 1 — Planning & Consultation

This will require a brief phone or e-mail discussion to assess your goals for the site (i.e., content, design, style, etc.)

To prepare, you should begin to gather:

• All content that you would like to present on your website, including textual copy and digital photos/graphics
• All existing marketing materials such as logos, illustrations, charts, graphs, brochures, business cards, mailers, etc.
• Other websites that you would like for me to review for reference and comparison
• URLs of your competitors and industry-related resources

Examples of other items that we will discuss: Your purpose for the site (informational vs. e-commerce), what you hope to accomplish, your budget, your deadline, etc. There are MANY more important aspects to planning a website. Once you contact me, we will begin to address these issues.

Stage 2 — Design & Development

During this stage, I will begin to design and develop your site. I will provide a private URL where you can review designs that I have created, as well as check on the progress of the development.

After the site has been completed according to our earlier agreements, and I have thoroughly tested the website or application in different platforms, we will begin the last stage of production.

Stage 3 — Implementation & Transfer

This occurs when I upload your site to the live server for the “launch.” Final invoice balance will be due within seven days of the completion of your project.

I like working with clients, meeting new people and learning about new industries. Most of my clients are those who want the same types of things, and do not want to be confused by a lot of “technical jargon,” or to be put off by firms who are not available for their questions and concerns. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions about what I do, or if you have any other web- or design-related questions. Your input and suggestions are welcome at any time.