The Edmonton Business Owner's Guide to Finding Your Perfect Web Design Company
by Aaron Janes, Founder
You're in a great place.
You're either starting or scaling your business and you're ready to get a website up and running - by far one of the best decisions you can make for your company. This is going to be your online HQ. The place customers go to see what you're all about.
Maybe you've played with a website builder or two, or you're making the jump to get everything done professionally off the bat. Again, this is one of the best decisions you can make, ensuring everything is working and up to scratch (as well as modern standards).
However, when it comes to actually picking the right professional web design company for the job, that's where things get tough.
You know, the one that won't just slap together a pretty website but actually understands your business, your customers, and that unique Edmonton vibe. The one that'll make your website a lean, mean, lead-generating machine, not just another online brochure collecting digital dust.
Sound too good to be true? Trust me, I get it. I've been there. Scouring endless Google results, wading through flashy portfolios, only to end up with a website that looks like it was designed by my nephew (sorry, Steven).
But here's the good news: it doesn't have to be this way. This guide covers everything you need to know so you can find your web design company right here in Edmonton.
Let's get right into it.
What Makes a Great Edmonton Web Design Company?
Chances are you've looked at a few agencies already and seen your fair share of stunning website portfolios. But here's the thing: a pretty website doesn't always equal a successful one.
Modern web design balances function and aesthetics but in a way that reflects YOUR unique business.
Take a look at Uber's website.
Sleek, minimal, modern.
Looks great and does the job, but if you're designing a website for your new cosy little coworking cafe, this website won't work. Likewise, a website looking like this?
Yup, that’s a real website. Find it here.
Well, that's just a bit over the top for most people. Or maybe it isn't. Maybe that's exactly what you're looking for, and that's the point. Your business demands your website, and a great web design company will take the time to find out how to achieve just that.
So, that's what you need to be looking for. Let's break some considerations:
- Local Expertise: Edmonton isn't just another dot on the map, right? It's got its own unique culture, its own way of doing business. You need a web design company that gets that. One that understands the local market, your target audience, and can tailor your website to resonate with Edmontonians.
- Responsive Design: Ever tried to navigate a website on your phone that looks like it was designed for a desktop from the 90s? Not fun, right? Your website needs to look and function flawlessly on every device – mobile, tablet, desktop – or you risk losing potential customers (and their hard-earned dollars).
- SEO Optimization: Sure, a beautiful website is great. But if nobody can find it, what's the point? A top-notch web design company will know the ins and outs of SEO (search engine optimization) and make sure your website ranks high in local searches. After all, you want Edmontonians to find you when looking for your products or services.
- Testimonials and Case Studies: Don't just take their word for it. Ask for references and check out examples of their work. Have they successfully designed websites for other businesses in Edmonton? Do their clients rave about their results? This is your chance to see if they walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
- Clear Communication & Project Management: Building a website can feel like herding cats sometimes. That's why you need a web design company that communicates clearly and manages projects effectively. You want someone who'll keep you in the loop, answer your questions promptly, and deliver your website on time and within budget.
Think of it like building a house: you wouldn't hire a contractor who couldn't explain their plans or stick to a schedule, would you?
The same level of scrutiny should be applied when choosing professionals for other aspects of your business, whether that's designing your website, developing products and services, or undertaking industrial design ventures.
With the latter, for example, you'd take time to research what it means, what your goals should be, what budget and schedule you're working with, and how you're going to address bottlenecks and challenges that arise. You might like using platform like DesignRush who rank the best businesses in the industry, so you know you're working with a legitimate agency that's actually going to benefit your business.
Same goes for your website.
How to Define Your Web Design Goals and, Then, Your Budget
As with any project in life, you need goals. You need a target to aim for, and that'll guide every decision you make. With a goal in mind, then you can then set a budget. A website should never be a money sink but a wise, sustainable investment instead.
So, brass tacks. How do you get this clear vision?
Start with these three questions:
- What's the purpose of my website? Is it to generate leads? Sell products? Showcase your services? Build brand awareness? Knowing your goals will help you determine the features and functionality you need.
- Who's my target audience? Are you targeting young professionals, families, or a niche market? Understanding your audience will help you tailor your website's design and content to resonate with them.
- What's my budget? Be realistic about how much you're willing to spend. Web design costs can vary widely, so it's important to have a budget in mind to avoid overspending. Simply choose what you're able to offer.
On average, you're looking anywhere between $500 and - $5,000, depending on what you need and the company you work with.
So, if you're selling online, you'll need a store, eCommerce functionality, and website security.
If you're running a content site behind a membership wall, you'll need subscription and account management tools.
If you're showcasing your work, you'll need a portfolio.
All different features and outcomes to consider. Get clear and write a list of what you think you need. You'll be much better equipped when approaching a web design company.
And here's a tip: Don't be afraid to dream big, but also be practical. Maybe you'd love a website with all the bells and whistles, but if your budget doesn't allow for it, prioritise the features that are essential for achieving your goals.
If you still need features later on, you can always add them in.
Where to Find Reputable Web Design Companies in Edmonton: Your Scavenger Hunt Begins
Now you've got your web design goals and budget figured out, it's time to start the hunt for the perfect web design partner. Luckily, Edmonton's got a vibrant tech scene, so you've got options.
Here are a few places to start your search:
- Online Directories: Think of these as the Yellow Pages of the digital age. Sites like Clutch, Fiverr, and even good ol' Google can help you find web design companies in Edmonton. You can filter by budget, industry, and even check out reviews from other businesses.
- Referrals and Networking: Remember that business mixer you went to last month? Or that coffee chat with your entrepreneur friend? Those are goldmines for referrals. Ask around, see who your fellow business owners have used and loved. Personal recommendations are often the most trustworthy.
- Industry Events and Meetups: Edmonton's got a thriving tech community with regular events and meetups. This is your chance to mingle with local web designers, get a feel for their personalities, and see if there's a good fit. Plus, you might just learn a thing or two about the latest web design trends.
- Social Media: Don't underestimate the power of social media. Follow local web design companies on platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook. Check out their work, their company culture, and see if their style aligns with your vision.
Remember, finding the right web design company is like dating. You're not just looking for someone with a pretty face (or a fancy portfolio). You're looking for a partner who understands your needs, communicates well, and can deliver results.
So don't be afraid to shop around, ask questions, and trust your gut. After all, this relationship could last for years (or at least until your next website redesign).
Vetting Potential Candidates: The Interview Process (It's Not as Scary as It Sounds)
So, you've found a few web design companies that seem promising. Now, it's time to put them to the test. Think of it like interviewing potential employees (except you're the boss, which is always fun).
Here's how to make the most of your web design interviews:
- Essential Questions: Don't be shy! Ask lots of questions to get a feel for their experience, process, and communication style. Here are a few must-asks:
- How long have you been designing websites in Edmonton?
- Can you share examples of successful websites you've built for local businesses like mine?
- What's your design process like? How involved will I be?
- How do you approach SEO for local businesses?
- What's your pricing structure? Are there any hidden fees?
- What's your timeline for completing a project like mine?
- Red Flags: Keep an eye out for any warning signs that this might not be the right fit. For example:
- Pushy sales tactics: If they're trying to pressure you into signing a contract right away, that's a red flag.
- Lack of transparency: If they're vague about their process or pricing, it could mean hidden costs or surprises down the road.
- Generic portfolio: If their portfolio looks like a cookie-cutter collection of templates, it could mean they lack creativity or the ability to tailor their designs to your specific needs.
- Requesting Proposals: Once you've narrowed down your options, ask for detailed proposals. This will give you a clearer picture of their proposed design, timeline, and cost. Make sure the proposal includes everything you discussed during the interview, so there are no surprises later.